Police have issued a warning regarding counterfeit money following fake bank notes being circulated in west Fife.
The public are particularly urged to look out for counterfeit £20 Clydesdale Bank notes which bear a common serial number of A/FG502362.
Chief Inspector Ross Bennet of Cowdenbeath police said, “I would ask the public to be particularly vigilant when taking monies. These fraudsters target premises and often put on the persona of being a genuine customer.
“Often low-value goods are purchased with fake money with the intention of gaining real money back but also depriving the retailer of the goods. There are a number of simple steps that can be taken to avoid being the victim of such crime.”
Fife Constabulary is working with other agencies in a bid to protect businesses in the area. One such agency is the Cowdenbeath Business Forum.
Forum chairwoman Amelia Howie said, “We are a group of like-minded retailers keen to make Cowdenbeath a safe and enjoyable place to shop in and visit. With that in mind we have introduced a radio system that allows us to quickly pass information.
“This has proved invaluable in helping the police in these recent frauds. However, we are not resting on our laurels and with the help of the Cowdenbeath Community Safety Panel we will be ensuring that retailers have the detector pens, ultraviolet checking lights and current bank note information to deter the would-be fraudster.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome further retailers to the forum as a united approach can only be of benefit to us all.”
Any retailer looking to become involved in the forum or who needs assistance in relation to counterfeit money should contact Cowdenbeath community safety officer PC Gary Kenhard on 01592 318600.