English
Kinyarwanda
Vendors of mobile phone airtime operating in Gakenke, Nemba and Karambo sectors of Gakenke District have been tutored on how to identify counterfeited currencies and urged to always report those they see or suspect to be circulating fake monies.
In a meeting held this week with the vendors, the District Community Liaison officer (DCLO) Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) Rwatangabo Bizimana, advised the vendors to be watchful of people who may give them counterfeit currencies as they attempt to purchase airtime.
Vendors of airtime vouchers and telecom banking agents are said to be among those targeted by those circulating fake currencies, although in most cases such attempts are foiled and suspects arrested.
AIP Bizimana reminded them of the importance of their business for personal and family development, and urged them to watch out against individuals such as those counterfeiting and circulating currencies, whose criminal acts can affect their business.
“Your role towards development is crucial, that’s why your business should be protected from any harm. This is why we encourage you to always verify the currencies before making any transaction,” said AIP Bizimana
He added that; “Counterfeiting currency is a crime that poses a threat to the economy and is a source of financial loss to its citizens. You should always be vigilant and check the given currency notes thoroughly, report people that are involved in these criminal acts that have ill-impact on the economy. The effects of counterfeit to a trader are grave as they could easily lead them out of business.”
AIP Bizimana explained to be them that fake currencies leads to reduction in the value of real money, increases inflation, unauthorised artificial increase in the money supply; a decrease in the acceptability of paper money; and losses, especially when traders are not reimbursed for counterfeit money detected.
They were also called upon to partner and collaborate with the police by sharing information on any suspected criminals.
