CAPE BRETON: The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Atlantic Region and the Nova Scotia RCMP’s Commercial Crime Section are investigating a significant seizure of counterfeit Canadian currency valued at over $100,000.
The investigation began on Jan. 9 when CBSA officers at Mirabel International Airport in Quebec intercepted a package containing counterfeit holographic stickers, closely resembling the security strips embedded in Canadian banknotes.
Later, on Jan. 27, another package containing approximately $30,000 in counterfeit $10, $20, $50, and $100 bills was intercepted at the international cargo processing facility in Mississauga, Ontario. Both shipments, originating from China, were destined for the same address in Glace Bay.
The CBSA seized the items and alerted the Nova Scotia RCMP.
On Feb. 11, the Nova Scotia RCMP’s Commercial Crime Section, with support from the Provincial Proceeds of Crime Section and the Cape Breton Regional Police Service’s Community Safety Enforcement Unit, executed a search warrant at a Glace Bay residence.
Officers seized approximately $70,000 in counterfeit currency, holographic stickers, electronic devices, a rifle, and additional evidence.
When asked how much counterfeit currency may have made it out into the Cape Breton economy, the RCMP advised that couldn’t be determined.
“At this time, we can’t say how much of the fake currency made its way into general circulation,” Senior Communications Advisor with the RCMP Allison Gerrard told The Strait Area Reporter in a written statement. “
The investigation remains ongoing, with assistance from the National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau and the Bank of Canada. Authorities are still working to determine the full extent of the counterfeit money that may have entered circulation.
RCMP officials are urging Nova Scotians to be vigilant when handling cash transactions.
“Unfortunately, counterfeit money is in circulation across the country,” Cpl. Mitch Thompson of the RCMP Commercial Crime Section said. “When printed on polymer, some fake bills may look real if you don’t pay attention to the security features embedded in legitimate currency.”
Cpl. Thompson emphasized the importance of recognizing security features to prevent financial loss.
“In Canada, it’s an offence to knowingly use or possess counterfeit money,” he said. “And if you unknowingly accept counterfeit cash as legal tender, you can’t be reimbursed; you’re on the hook for the loss. Being familiar with the security features of genuine banknotes will help you spot counterfeits at a glance, protecting yourself from fraud.”
As part of the ongoing investigation, officials are examining how the counterfeit money entered the country and its intended purpose.
Resources for identifying genuine banknotes are available on the Bank of Canada’s website at www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes.
Anyone who suspects they have encountered counterfeit currency is urged to report it to their local RCMP detachment or police service. Anonymous tips can be provided through Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or via the P3 Tips app.