Image Credit: RCMP
Counterfeit bills

Counterfeit bills being passed in Fort St. James

Aug 25, 2021 | 12:15 PM

FORT ST. JAMES — Beware of counterfeit bills being passed in Fort St. James.

Mounties are warning businesses to be vigilant after several incidents of suspected Canadian $50 bills circulating around town.

Since June, RCMP say there have been three incidents of these bills being circulated at local businesses.

The suspected counterfeit bills have the serial number LGQ03229158, and are either taped together or glued together in the security strip feature of the bill. Police say it’s important to note that the security strip will belong to a $5.

The RCMP is asking local merchants to examine and verify any currency that is given to them and to report any suspicious bills to their local RCMP.

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 anyone has any information that may help with this investigation, please contact the Fort St. James RCMP.

For more information on detecting counterfeit bills and what to do if you receive one, please visit the Bank of Canada’s webpage about counterfeit prevention.