Mounties in West Kelowna say they recently disrupted a counterfeiting operation at a home on Shannon Place. Officers executed a search warrant at the home last month, seizing more than $20,000 in counterfeit currency, along with seven firearms, ammunition and various suspected drugs, including cocaine, MDMA and ketamine, according to a Friday news release from West Kelowna RCMP. The search also yielded “a substantial quantity” of counterfeit security holograms, as well as other materials believed to be for making fake banknotes, police said. Police arrested one man at the scene, and the investigation is ongoing. Charges will need to be approved by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, according to Mounties. “This seizure removed a significant quantity of counterfeit currency, illicit drugs, and firearms from our community,” said Cpl. Shaun Achtymichuk, in the release. “Counterfeit currency undermines confidence in our financial system and can have serious impacts on local businesses and residents. This investigation highlights our commitment to disrupting organized criminal activity and enhancing public safety.” Residents and businesses should “remain vigilant” during cash transactions and report suspected counterfeit currency, police said. “This investigation demonstrates how crimes often perceived as ‘white-collar’ offences can intersect with the criminal underworld of drug trafficking and the illegal possession of firearms,” Achtymichuk added. Police asked anyone with information related to their investigation to call them at 250-768-2880. Tips can also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
