AT LEAST a dozen Ballarat businesses have fallen victim to counterfeit bank notes circulating in the city, with losses totalling more than $2500.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
In the past month alone, police have received about 20 fake $100 notes and 15 $50 notes brought in by staff from fast-food outlets, supermarkets and liquor stores.
The fake notes are printed on soft paper with a clear view insert, and have been mostly used in stores in and around Wendouree Village, Central Square and the Bridge Mall.
Detective Senior Constable Barry Hills said offenders were using the notes in situations where retail staff were rushed and unlikely to closely check the money handed to them.
“There have been a number of businesses where suspects have used credit cards that didn’t work, and then when the queue banks up to 10 or 12 people, they pull out the notes, which are hurriedly accepted,” Detective Hills said.
“Businesses are struggling to make money as it is without this. It’s probably the first time we’ve had such a consistent amount of counterfeit money come through Ballarat.”
Detective Hills said shopkeepers needed to closely examine banknotes handed to them, looking for unusual rips, tears, thinness and folds.
“They should take time and have a look at the notes themselves, and if wary then seek help from managers or call police,” he said. “Businesses need to make sure they are receiving legitimate notes.”
Police have a number of persons of interest, and will follow up with them in the coming days.
Detectives are also reviewing CCTV footage provided by affected businesses, and forensic samples have been taken from some of the notes for analysis.
Retail staff who suspect that they have received counterfeit notes should obtain a description of the person who gave it to them, as well any information about a vehicle they may be using.
To report information regarding the matter, contact the Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit on 5336 6080 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
