Overview
- Ahmedabad Crime Branch intercepted a white SUV in Amraiwadi and recovered about 42,000 counterfeit ₹500 notes, with an additional ₹28 lakh seized in Surat, for a total face value of ₹2.38 crore.
- Seven suspects were arrested, including Surat-based yoga teacher Pradeep Jotangiya, with police alleging the group operated under the cover of the Shri Satyam Yog Foundation and used a vehicle bearing AYUSH-style markings and a VVIP sticker.
- Raids uncovered a residential printing setup in Surat with professional printers, cutting machines, inks and specialised materials used to produce high-quality forgeries.
- Police say the syndicate sourced security‑thread paper resembling RBI markings from Chinese sellers via e-commerce and used digital tools, including photo‑editing software and AI platforms, with some payments reportedly made in cryptocurrency.
- A court granted 10 days of police custody for all seven under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita counterfeiting and conspiracy provisions, as RBI and FSL tests proceed and officers search for additional members and any circulated notes.