Hinjawadi: Two held for printing counterfeit currency in Pune

In a significant development, the Hinjawadi police in Pune apprehended two individuals, identified as Abhishek Rajendra Kakade (20) and Omkar Ramakrishna Tekam (18), and detained a 17-year-old accomplice on charges related to the printing and attempted circulation of counterfeit Indian currency notes. The arrests took place near the IT Park at Bodkewadi Phata, as the trio was reportedly en route to Maan village.

According to Senior Inspector Shriram Paul of the Hinjawadi police, the two suspects are residents of Maan near Hinjewadi and had dropped out of school. Coming from economically challenged backgrounds, they found themselves in need of funds to cover personal expenses. In a desperate attempt to address their financial constraints, the duo conceived the idea of printing counterfeit currency notes. Having acquired a scanner and printer a few days prior, the suspects, along with their minor accomplice, initiated the process of printing counterfeit Indian currency notes. 

The police seized counterfeit notes with a face value of Rs 1.20 lakh, all in 500 denominations, from their possession, along with the computer and printer used in the illegal operation.

Paul stated that the authorities are currently investigating whether the suspects had managed to circulate any of the counterfeit notes before their arrest. Acting on a tip-off, the Pimpri Chinchwad police conducted the operation, leading to the arrests.

The trio was reportedly heading towards Maan village when the police intercepted them at Bodkewadi Phata. Assistant Police Inspector Ram Gomare led the operation, and Police Constable Shrikant Chavan filed the complaint.

The arrested individuals, Abhishek Rajendra Kakade and Omkar Ramakrishna Tekam were presented before the court which remanded them in police custody until February 21. Initial findings suggest that the counterfeit notes were likely produced at home. 

However, due to the high quality of the fake currency, authorities are exploring the possibility of involvement from individuals outside the state or even abroad. The investigation remains ongoing, with potential further revelations expected.