Bulgarian Police Disrupted a Group for Distribution of Fake Euro Banknotes

In a specialized operation held on 20^th of June, the police disrupted a group for distribution of counterfeit euro banknotes.

Five people were arrested in the town of Petrich at the time of selling the fake banknotes to undercover police officers, the Ministry of Interior said on 22^nd of June.

Counterfeit banknotes have been found and seized after a search of the car of one of the people allegedly involved in the crime group and the apartment of another one.

Initial data shows the group has been operating since November 2016.

The participants imported counterfeit 20 and 50 euros banknotes of in large quantities from Italy and sold them in Bulgaria, mainly in Petrich and Sandanski(South Bulgaria), selling them 20% cheaper than the par value.

The arrested have also been involved in drugs distribution, mainly marijuana. Three of them are detained for 72 hours, the other two are released on bail.