Operatives from the State Security Service have reportedly intercepted a criminal scheme involving the manufacture and widespread circulation of counterfeit banknotes in the Andijan region. Such illicit operations pose a significant threat to financial security and public trust, highlighting persistent vulnerabilities within local communities.

According to official reports, a 1987-born resident of the Asaka district—who was allegedly previously convicted of fraud-related offenses—was apprehended red-handed while attempting to sell counterfeit currency. The suspect purportedly negotiated the delivery of 297 million soms in fake 100,000 and 200,000 som banknotes to an undercover buyer in exchange for 148 million soms in real currency.

The operation extended to a search of the suspect's residence, where authorities allegedly uncovered the production equipment used to forge the national currency. Investigators reportedly seized a computer setup and an Epson brand color printer identified as the primary tools for generating the fake bills.

Furthermore, the search yielded semi-finished 50,000 and 100,000 som banknotes printed on special A4-sized paper, alongside paper-cutting equipment which was documented under procedural guidelines. The regional department has supposedly initiated criminal proceedings under the country's penal code, with ongoing investigations focused on uncovering potential accomplices.

Source: www.gazeta.uz