RCMP warn of counterfeit US cash in Kelowna

KELOWNA – Fake money is making rounds in Kelowna again.

RCMP say they have seized several counterfeit US $20 and $50 bills from local institutions, which they say were used to buy goods and services throughout the Central Okanagan.

Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey says they have ten police files relating to bogus currency used at casinos, thrift stores, banks, sports complexes, drug stores and restaurants in Kelowna and West Kelowna.

“In most cases, these bogus bills are making it past the initial point of sale and being discovered by financial institution employees in the businesses nightly bank deposits,” he says in a media release.

Investigations remain ongoing at this time as police continue their efforts to identify several persons of interest.

Const. Jacqueline Montpetit of the Kelowna RCMP GIS Economic Crime Unit recommends business owners and operators review their policies and ensure employees learn how to detect counterfeit money.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP GIS Economic Crime Unit at 250-762-3300. Or remain completely anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net or by texting your tip to CRIMES (274637) ktown.

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