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Malaysian police have arrested three Sierra Leonean nationals in connection with a counterfeit currency operation involving fake US dollar notes.
The suspects, aged between 20 and 30, were apprehended during a raid at a condominium in the capital on October 2. They had entered Malaysia as students at a private university college in Selangor between 2022 and 2024.
According to Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, Director of the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (JSJK), the trio had been involved in the illegal sale of counterfeit US dollars, which they allegedly purchased through social media platforms.
The fake notes, reportedly sourced from China, were bought at a rate of RM6.97 for 10,000 USD and resold to unsuspecting buyers in Malaysia for RM1,000 per 10,000 pieces.
During the raid, police seized four counterfeit USD100 notes, two blank paper sheets resembling the size of US dollar bills, passports, and two vehicles—a Naza Forte and a Proton Iriz.
The suspects are currently being held under the Immigration Act 1959/63 and will remain in custody until October 21. The case is being investigated under Section 489B of the Penal Code, which deals with the offense of selling counterfeit currency.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the syndicate, which is believed to have been operational since early 2024.
The arrests highlight growing concerns over counterfeit money circulating within the country and the risks posed to the local economy.
