Counterfeit currency has surfaced twice in the last week but officers of the Criminal Investigations Unit believe there may be more in circulation and therefore are asking business owners to be on the lookout. Photo: VINO/File

Head of the Criminal Investigations Unit Acting Chief Inspector Duncan Williams is asking that businesses keep their money scanners and other authenticating devices in operations especially now.

“In one case, the unsuspecting target was a food vendor who was unequipped to scan for counterfeit bills and therefore was unaware of the deception. In another case, the counterfeit note was discovered after the person had left the premises. It is important especially this time of year to be on the lookout,” he said.

Anyone who is presented with a counterfeit note in exchange for goods or services should make an official report to police as soon as possible.

The RVIPF welcomes assistance with any information that could identify those who are circulating counterfeit bills. Persons can contact the Criminal Investigations Unit through the RVIPF access number 311. Persons can also give information anonymously by calling the hotline number 1-800-TIPS (8477) or give information via the police website at www.rvipolice.com under the heading “Help Us Solve a Crime”.