Investigators from the Investigation Service of Georgia's Ministry of Finance have detained two individuals in the Adjara region for selling fake foreign currency. Law enforcement officers seized counterfeit United States dollar banknotes worth a total of $20,500 during the operation.
The suspects were apprehended after attempting to market forged $50 and $100 denomination notes across the region.
Legal Charges and Penalties
An investigation was opened under Article 212 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which addresses the manufacture, storage, or sale of counterfeit money or securities. The detained individuals face 7 to 10 years in prison if convicted by the court.
Financial crime authorities noted that counterfeit operations targeting foreign currency occasionally peak during high tourist seasons in coastal resort areas like Batumi.
Guidance on Cash Transactions
Law enforcement agencies advise businesses and individuals conducting cash exchanges in Georgia to verify security features on high-denomination foreign banknotes. Official exchange booths, commercial banks, and verified financial institutions remain the recommended channels for currency conversion.
