Mr. Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, has reported that counterfeit banknotes have been discovered being used to buy products.
Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister, has warned people, especially merchants and vendors to be careful and to check banknotes received, especially high value banknotes and not become a victim of banknote counterfeiting gangs.
He asked the public for cooperation if they find counterfeit banknotes and no to continue to use counterfeit banknotes which an offence under the law.
Reports have been received of over 30 counterfeit 1,000 THB notes in the central province of Nonthaburi.
The advice is to write the word ‘fake’ on the banknote take it to a commercial bank as well as notifying police near the scene of the incident. They may also call the Bank of Thailand at 02-3567987.
A spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office said that there are several ways to spot counterfeit banknotes as follows:
First, notice the texture…Banknote papers had cotton polymer fibres which were different from other papers and made them more durable.
Second, spot the hidden watermark, which was HM the King’s portrait. The watermark would be revealed when holding it to the bright light.
Third, try tilting or flipping the banknote up and down. If the colour and picture changed in the light, the banknote was genuine.
PM Prayut also warned of big penalties for both creators and users of the counterfeit banknotes.
The fake banknote producers could face life sentences and fines up to 400,000 baht. The person who knowingly uses or circulates the fake bills could face up to 15 years in jail and fines up to 300,000 baht.
