AWKA, Nigeria – Anambra State has been struck by a surge of counterfeit N200 notes, prompting a top community leader to issue a warning to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other security agencies.
John Metchie, President-General of the Umueri community and Deputy Commandant General of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS), issued a statement on Sunday, April 23, 2023, alerting authorities to the fraud currently rampant in the Otuocha Market and other local areas.
“Intelligence reports indicate that some unscrupulous elements are exploiting the darkness of night to defraud unsuspecting individuals, particularly market women and operators of commercial motorcycles and tricycles,” Metchie stated.
According to Metchie, who also serves as the Prime Minister of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), these incidents have the potential to disrupt the law and order in the local government areas.
Counterfeit naira notes, once only used for ceremonial purposes at weddings and funerals, have now become a weapon of choice for criminals in everyday transactions.
He warned in a statement titled “Threat to Law and Order Over Use of Fake Naira Notes in the LGA,” that, “information available reveals that the fake notes were being printed and used during weddings and burials but that criminals are now using them to buy things from traders and other unsuspecting victims.”
Metchie called on the CBN and security agencies to carry out covert operations in the area to “fish out the undesirable elements in order to bring them to book.” He also urged residents to report any suspicious transactions involving counterfeit notes to local vigilantes for immediate action and referral to the police.
Additionally, Metchie cautioned commercial motorcycle operators against colluding with these criminals, emphasizing that local vigilantes are working in conjunction with the police and other security agents to maintain safety in their communities.
“Our local vigilantes are committed to keeping our communities safe, and we all have a role to play in maintaining law and order,” he added.
