A missing-person investigation in Kollam led police to a suspected counterfeit-currency printing operation at a house in Vadi, where printing equipment, paper cut for ₹500 notes and other materials allegedly linked to fake currency with a face value of around ₹2.5 crore were seized.
Police, along with the District Anti-Narcotic Special Action Force team of Kollam City, raided the house of Sibion, a native of Kallelivayal in Vadi, on Friday night and took him into custody.
The case began on October 16 after Sibion’s wife, Tincy, lodged a missing-person complaint at Pallithottam police station.
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Missing-Person Case Led Investigators to the House
During the investigation, police learnt that Sibion had allegedly been abducted from Asramam and that his gold ornaments had been taken away.
Investigators found that a person identified as Adarsh had allegedly called Sibion to a location. Police registered a kidnapping case, but Sibion later returned on his own and informed them about the incident.
Further questioning and an examination of his financial dealings revealed suspected hawala transactions and other unauthorised activities, prompting police to search his house.
Printing Equipment and 43 Sovereigns of Gold Recovered
During the raid, police seized a digital printer, bundles of paper cut to the size required for printing ₹500 notes, a currency-counting machine and other materials suspected to have been used in the counterfeit-currency operation.
Officials said the seized materials were believed to be linked to the production of fake notes with a face value of around ₹2.5 crore.
Police also recovered 43 sovereigns of gold ornaments from the premises.
Police Search for Alleged Supplier
Preliminary questioning indicated that Ravi, a native of Attingal, had supplied Sibion with materials allegedly used in the suspected operation in exchange for ₹30 lakh, according to an officer.
Police suspect that more people were involved in the operation and are trying to trace Ravi.
A detailed investigation is under way to establish the extent of the suspected counterfeit-currency network and identify others who may have been involved.
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.
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