Oyo: Six suspected counterfeit currency dealers caught with 8,900 fake euro notes

By Ayorinde Oluokun

Six suspects linked to the possession, circulation and alleged production of counterfeit Euro currency have been arrested by the police in Oyo State.

The arrest of the six suspects began with the interception of three men travelling on a motorcycle by police operatives on township patrol around the Labo–Wesley area of Ibadan on Tuesday September 1.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Oyo Police Command said a search conducted on the three mem led to the recovery of 89 pieces of suspected counterfeit €100 notes, with a total face value of €8,900.

“The suspects were identified as Tijani Saheed, 50, who was found in possession of the suspected counterfeit currency; Oni Oladapo, 67, who is alleged to have supplied the money; Adebayo Saheed, 52, who was the second passenger on the motorcycle; and Hammed Karemu, 25, the motorcycle rider,” the Command said in the statement signed by its spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka.

It added that circumstances surrounding the involvement of each suspect are being subjected to further investigation.

The Command added that during investigation, the suspects confessed to the commission of the crime and led operatives to the location where the suspected counterfeit currency was allegedly purchased.

According to the Command, a subsequent forensic sweep of the premises resulted in the recovery of exhibits suspected to have been used in the production of the counterfeit notes and the arrest of the alleged producer, bringing the total number of suspects arrested in connection with the case to six.

“All six suspects are currently in police custody and are cooperating with the investigation. Upon conclusion of the investigation, the suspects will be charged to court for prosecution in accordance with the law,” Olayinka said.

He also quoted Oyo Commissioner of Police CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbengab as commendeding the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism.

The Police Commissioner assured members of the public that the Command remains resolute in its efforts to disrupt criminal networks and protect residents and legitimate businesses from economic and financial crimes.