Dawood-linked fake currency network shifts to local printing as border routes tighten

April 14, 2026

New Delhi: Indian agencies have reported a sharp increase in seizures of counterfeit currency, indicating that organized networks are trying to expand their activities.

According to investigators, the syndicate linked to Dawood Ibrahim, which operates from Pakistan, is now instructing local printing of fake notes within India, rather than smuggling them through Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Emphasis on small but frequent operations

According to an Intelligence Bureau official, the syndicate is now advising its operatives to conduct small but frequent operations to maintain overall production and avoid attention.

To reduce the risk of detection, members are constantly changing their locations, making it difficult for agencies to track them.

Network being expanded in multiple states

Another official stated that a strategy is now being adopted to expand the printing network to states like Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab.

A unit was previously established in Malda, West Bengal, where high-quality counterfeit notes were produced, but after the agencies’ action, its capacity has been reduced by more than half.

Attempts to supply via drones continue

According to officials, even though local printing is increasing, attempts to supply fake notes via drones continue.

Recently, the BSF and Amritsar police seized counterfeit currency worth ₹2.5 lakh, which is believed to be a trial run. Agencies believe the purpose is to raise funds for terrorist activities and harm the Indian economy.