Two men charged over counterfeit S$50 notes in Singapore
Two Bangladeshi nationals, aged 33 and 35, are due to be charged in court on Tuesday with using and possessing counterfeit S$50 notes after a series of reports of counterfeit currency being used in Geylang between September 22 and September 25. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) outlined the case in a news release on Monday, detailing two incidents staged in the same neighbourhood that raised concerns about the circulation of fake notes.
What happened in Geylang
In the first incident, the 35-year-old man allegedly used a counterfeit S$50 note to buy food at a restaurant along Lorong 22 Geylang. In the second incident, the same man allegedly aided the other suspect—the 33-year-old—in using two counterfeit S$50 notes to pay for services along Lorong 16 Geylang. Police investigations continued after the reports, with authorities using ground inquiries and CCTV footage to identify the suspects.
Arrests and exhibits
The police said the 35-year-old man was identified and arrested on September 28. Preliminary investigations indicated the 33-year-old was involved in the second incident, and he was subsequently apprehended. During the investigation, the 33-year-old was found in possession of 12 additional S$50 notes suspected to be counterfeit. These notes were seized as case exhibits.
Charges and potential penalties
Both men will be charged in court with intentionally using counterfeit banknotes as if they were genuine, and with possession of counterfeit banknotes. The offences carry significant penalties under Singapore law. Forging or counterfeiting currency can lead to up to 20 years in prison and a fine. Using forged or counterfeit currency can attract the same maximum punishment. Possessing forged or counterfeit currency can carry a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine.
Public safety and what to know about counterfeit currency
Authorities emphasise that genuine Singapore notes include security features such as watermarks, security threads and a distinctive paper texture. These features help distinguish real notes from fakes. The SPF urged the public to stay vigilant when handling currency and to report any suspicious activity promptly.
What to do if you suspect counterfeit notes
If you suspect you have received counterfeit currency, call the police at 999 immediately. Take note of identifying features of the person who presented the suspected counterfeit note, limit handling the note and place it in a protective covering to prevent further tampering, then hand it over to the police as soon as possible.
Why cases like this matter
Counterfeit currency undermines public trust in the financial system and can threaten business transactions. Singapore’s law enforcement agencies regularly remind the public that the best defense is awareness and careful handling of cash. The SPF’s ongoing investigations and public advisories aim to reduce the prevalence of counterfeit notes and deter potential offenders.
