Roadtown, Tortola - With the August Festival in full swing and expected to intensify over the coming days, Government is warning public servants and others who collect money to be on the lookout for counterfeit currency.

As has become customary, particularly during periods of festivity, the Internal Audit Unit has issued a list of guidelines which it hopes people will use if they come into possession of counterfeit bills.

Deputy Director of Internal Audit Mrs. Dorea Corea told the Department of Information and Public Relations “persons who engage in the passing of counterfeit currency always look forward to these types of large activities, large crowds and gala spirits to operate.”

She also cautioned that with gambling taking place in the Algernon Festiville, this increases the likelihood for counterfeit bills to be in circulation.

Mrs. Corea said it is therefore important that “money handlers be alert and stay vigilant. She shared these words of caution for Government officers who collect money, vendors and business owners. “If you receive a counterfeit, please do not return it to the passer, delay the passer, if possible and observe the passer’s description, as well as that of any companions and the license plate number of any vehicle used.”

The Internal Audit Deputy Director also urged persons to “write their initials, date and time in the white border areas of the suspect note, limit the handling of the note by placing it in a protective covering and surrender the note or coin to a properly identified police officer.”

Persons who come into contact with counterfeit currency are also encouraged to immediately contact the nearest police station.

The Internal Audit Unit functions as the vanguard of Government operations with responsibility for inspection, investigation and integrity testing to ensure operational financial compliance and performance.