Government Warns Money Handlers to Look Out for Counterfeits

~~Adz:Right~~TORTOLA, B.V.I- Government is warning public servants and others who collect money to be on the lookout for counterfeit currency particularly during the August Festival.

Recognising the festival as one of the biggest cultural activities in the Territory, the Internal Audit Unit has issued a list of guidelines which it hopes people will use if they come into possession of counterfeit bills.

Director of Internal Audit Mr. Wendell Gaskin told the Department of Information and Public Relations that “the perpetrators of these crimes always look forward to these types of large activities, large crowds and gala spirits to operate.”

Encouraging people to be extremely vigilant about the money they receive, Mr. Gaskin had these words of advice 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 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.