Lloydminster RCMP investigating uses of counterfeit money

The Lloydminster RCMP are investigating several instances of counterfeit currency use reported by businesses in the city.

The suspect is the same in every instance and is described as:

• Caucasian 25-30 year old male
• 5’8-5’10″ with a slender build

The suspect is using multiple denominations of Canadian currency, police say.

RCMP would like to remind the public of the following security features in all current Canadian notes.

• Raised ink on the large number
• Raised ink on “Bank of Canada” and “Banque du Canada”
• Check the holographic strip on the note: the numbers should match the bill’s value, and the word “Canada” feels lightly raised

If you suspect that you’re being offered a counterfeit note, assess the situation to ensure that you are not at risk.

Then, do the following:

• Politely refuse the note and explain that you suspect that it may be counterfeit.
• Ask for another note (and check it too).
• Advise the person to check the note with the local police.
• Inform your local police of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money.
• Be courteous. Remember that the person in possession of the bill could be an innocent victim who does not realize that the note is suspicious.

“If you suspect that you’ve received a counterfeit note, please contact the RCMP right away,” says Const. Michael Hagel of the Lloydminster RCMP Detachment.

“Try to avoid handling it any further, as there is a potential to get forensic evidence from the note.”

The Lloydminster RCMP is looking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect.

Please contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400 or your local police if you have any information.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.