Nanaimo RCMP say counterfeit $100 bills were used in multiple purchases around the city recently, including two where the offender used intimidation of the store clerk to ensure a transaction went through. (submitted photo/Nanaimo RCMP)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

FUNNY MONEY

‘Not a lot of skill going in with making these:’ shoddy counterfeit cash circulating through Nanaimo

Dec 6, 2021 | 9:36 AM

NANAIMO — Local Mounties are tracking at least one man in the community who is circulating poorly-made counterfeit bills.

RCMP said counterfeit bills were confirmed to be used in four stores since Dec. 1. In two cases, a large, muscular man has attempted to pay with fake $100’s.

Cst. Gary O’Brien said the man is reportedly highly aggressive in a bid to force the transaction through.

“He actually persuaded the clerk in one instance where he was downtown, the clerk was quite intimidated by this person when he pulled out three $100 bills out of a wad he had in his pocket.”

The clerk in question feared for their safety, allowed the transaction then reported the situation to police after the person had left.

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The suspect, who police believe is responsible for at least two of the four cases to date, is described as 6′ tall, muscular with short hair. Workers reported the man had a ball cap and camo bandana both times.

Nanaimo RCMP have recovered a number of fake $100 bills from local retailers through December. (submitted photo/Nanaimo RCMP)

O’Brien added the bills themselves aren’t very convincing.

“There’s not a lot of skill going in with making these, the hologram you can actually scratch off with your finger so that is the telltale sign. The bills are also extremely weathered, old and crumbly.”

The $100 bill had a serial number of EJA8914981, while the $20 was marked with AUV7313367.

Police recommend not getting into arguments with people attempting to pass fake cash. The best strategies include asking for an alternative method of payment and, if possible, involve a second staff member.

If anyone has any information on these situations, or the individual involved, contact the RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250 754 2345 and quote file number 2021-44597.

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