Counterfeit U.S. cash circulating in Victoria, police warn

Victoria police are warning local businesses about a spike in fake American bills circulating in the city.

Officers say they have had 24 separate reports of counterfeit currency since Nov. 1, and all but one of those cases have involved U.S. bills.

Police say most of the fake bills were $20 notes but some were $50 bills as well. They were used at cash-based businesses such as convenience stores, fast food restaurants and gas stations.

"It does not take much to produce somewhat realistic-looking counterfeit notes," said Det. Sgt Derek Tolmie. "All you need is a computer, colour printer and a little bit of knowledge."

Investigators say they believe there are close ties between the street-level drug trade and the fake currency.

• Tips for identifying counterfeit U.S. bills

Anyone with information is asked to call the police non-emergency line at 250-995-7654 or to remain anonymous call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.