A network distributing counterfeit US dollars in the Tangerang Regency area, Banten, has been dismantled by the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Indonesian National Police.

In this operation, officers arrested four suspects with the initials AS, AF, AA, and HS.

The head of the unit explained that the disclosure began with public reports through a hotline, which suspected illegal foreign currency transactions.

The perpetrators used a method of offering “Macau Dollars” at below-market prices, specifically 13,400 Indonesian Rupiah per US dollar, to attract residents amid the current high exchange rate.

“We secured suspect AS while he was about to conduct a transaction at a restaurant in the Cikupa area, Tangerang Regency, on Friday, April 17, 2026, around 1:45 PM local time,” he said.

From him, 874 counterfeit 100 US dollar bills were found, which turned out to be fake after examination.

Following the arrest of AS, police quickly moved and apprehended three other syndicate members: AF, AA, and HS. “Each had strategic roles, ranging from intermediaries to providers of counterfeit money,” he added.

Although four people have been detained, police are still searching for a key figure with the initial D, who is strongly suspected to be the main supplier or major dealer in this network.

“We are still investigating whether this group operates independently or is connected to other cross-regional syndicates,” he added.

The suspects and evidence have now been handed over to the Directorate of Special Economic Crimes for further investigation. The value of the seized evidence reaches 1.4 billion Indonesian Rupiah.

For their actions, they are charged under Articles 244 and 245, paragraphs 1 and 2 of the Criminal Code regarding currency counterfeiting.

He urged the public to always conduct foreign exchange transactions at official institutions such as banks or licensed money changers.

“Do not be easily tempted by offers of unreasonably low prices. Make sure to transact at places with official operating licenses to avoid losses,” he concluded.

Tangerang Regency

Tangerang Regency is a regency located in Banten Province, Indonesia, surrounding the city of Tangerang. Historically, the area was part of the ancient Tarumanagara Kingdom and later developed into a key agricultural and trade region under Dutch colonial rule. Today, it is a rapidly urbanizing area known for its industrial zones, residential developments, and cultural sites like the Benteng Heritage Museum.

Banten

Banten is a province in Indonesia, historically significant as the center of the powerful Banten Sultanate, a major Islamic trading port that flourished from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The region is home to the Grand Mosque of Banten, a 16th-century architectural landmark blending Javanese, Chinese, and European influences, reflecting its multicultural trading past. Today, Banten is known for its cultural heritage, beaches, and the remnants of its once-thriving sultanate.

Cikupa area

The Cikupa area, located in Tangerang Regency, Banten, Indonesia, is a rapidly developing industrial and residential district. Historically, it was a rural region known for its agricultural land, but since the late 20th century, it has transformed into a hub for manufacturing and housing due to its proximity to Jakarta. Today, Cikupa is characterized by a mix of traditional villages, new housing complexes, and factories, reflecting Indonesia’s ongoing urbanization.