Ahmedabad | A major counterfeit currency racket has been unearthed in Gujarat, where crores worth of fake notes were allegedly circulated under the guise of spiritual activities. The main accused, Pradeep Jotangia alias ‘Pradeep Guruji’, has been arrested along with five others, including a woman. Authorities seized a large consignment of fake ₹500 notes, with the total recovery estimated at around ₹2.9 crore.
According to sources, the network was busted following specific intelligence inputs. Acting on suspicious movements, teams carried out a late-night operation in the Amraiwadi area of Ahmedabad and intercepted the accused on the spot. Initial searches led to the recovery of fake currency worth ₹2 crore, indicating the scale at which the racket was operating.
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As the investigation expanded, links to Surat also emerged. Coordinated action led to the seizure of an additional ₹80 lakh in counterfeit notes from there, taking the total recovery to ₹2.9 crore. Officials said the network was active across multiple cities and operated in a systematic manner to distribute fake currency.
A key revelation during the probe was the use of a vehicle marked with ‘Satyam Yoga Foundation’ along with insignia resembling those of the Government of India and the Ministry of AYUSH. These markings were allegedly used to avoid suspicion and enable smooth movement across locations. The accused reportedly used religious and official symbolism as a cover to conceal their illegal activities.
Major illegal Currency Note Printing Scam Uncovered
📍Ahmadabad-Surat, Gujarat
Main accused Spiritual Guru, Pradeep Jotangia ‘Guruji’, has been arrested along with 5 others.
— Operation was being run from Shri Satyam Yoga Foundation’s Ashram.
— Counterfeit Notes were being… pic.twitter.com/1DtdMapJZw
— زماں (@Delhiite_) March 19, 2026
During interrogation, it was revealed that the fake currency was being printed in the Varachha area of Surat. Based on this input, teams conducted a raid and uncovered a fully functional printing unit. Printing machines, raw materials and crucial documents were seized from the site, suggesting a technically equipped setup capable of producing counterfeit notes on a large scale.
Investigators also found that the entire operation was being run from the premises of ‘Shri Satyam Yoga Foundation’ ashram located in Stad Pardi village of Kamrej taluka. Several important documents and technical equipment were recovered from the premises, which are expected to strengthen the case.
In a related operation, another accused, Mukesh, was traced and taken into custody after a raid at his residence, where suspicious materials were seized. The probe further extended to Rajkot, where Pradeep Guruji was running yoga classes under the name ‘Satyam Yoga & Health Center’. His associates and family members were questioned, and digital devices were examined to track financial links and the broader network.
According to investigators, the accused had devised a specific method for circulating fake currency. They would offer genuine ₹500 notes in exchange for ₹1,500 worth of counterfeit notes. In one planned deal, they intended to exchange original currency worth ₹66 lakh for fake notes amounting to ₹2 crore, highlighting the scale and intent of the operation.
While the crackdown has dealt a significant blow to the racket, officials said the investigation is still ongoing. Efforts are underway to identify other members involved, trace the distribution channels and determine the full extent of the network.
The case once again highlights how organised criminal groups exploit religious fronts and institutions to mask illegal operations. More revelations are expected as the probe progresses.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
