Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Check point
A QUICK-THINKING barman and swift police action in Tsholotsho led to the arrest two men after they tried to buy alcohol using a fake US$100 note.
According to police, Karen Moyo (20) and Thabani Sibanda (25), both from Tracy Moyo homestead in Nemane village under Chief Gampu, were on Friday, caught with two counterfeit notes, serial numbers LK43968695A and LK43968670A.
“Two accused persons tendered a US$100 note at Sizalendaba bar, Tsholotsho business centre and tried to buy, but the alert barman realised that it was fake and rejected it,” said a police source.
The barman alerted other patrons, who in turn informed police intelligence. Officers tracked and arrested the suspects near Tsholotsho Registry.
A local shop owner said the duo had tried a similar stunt just days earlier, attempting to buy goods with a suspicious 200 rand note, which she rejected. She fears other businesses may have already been targeted.
“We heard about the attempt to buy using the suspicious rand note. We think they had already disposed it before the arrest because they have been doing this for almost a month now, and we have been tracking them, but they were too swift. We hope during interviews they will reveal more information,” said the police source.
Criminal Investigations Department national spokesperson, Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, confirmed the arrests but said full details would be released later.
She urged the business community and public to stay alert, especially during the festive season.
“We would like to urge especially the business community to be very alert, especially during this time of the season. Never rush to accept cash and transact without satisfying yourself that the note was genuine,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
