#Editorial

War on counterfeit money far from over!

Sep 22, 2023, 11:03 AM | Article By: EDITORIAL

It appears the country's fight against money laundering including counterfeit is just beginning.

This problem of counterfeit is robbing nations of their hard earned assets, thus giving criminal syndicates an opportunity to thrive. This growing phenomenon which is mostly coordinated by powerful criminals is wreaking havoc on countries' economies. 

The recent involving two Liberians by the police in Upper River Region, signals the growing and multifaceted trend.

A sum of US$8, 700 in counterfeit money is indeed worrying. But it also goes to show this nefarious business is still prevalent in the country.

It will be a difficult challenge but sanity will certainly prevail.

We therefore call on all to be on the alert and always report any nefarious dealing in their communities to the police.

Police have already taken into custody two people but there may be more in the chain work.

This business enterprise, as serious as it looks, requires a collective and multifaceted approach to curb it.

Police should leave no stone unturned to get to the bottom of the case. Too much fake money in circulation is not good for our economy. It only leads to depreciation of money, which is not good for any economy. 

Therefore, war on money laundering and counterfeit is a solemn call that requires all hands on deck.

No one is immune from criminal acts as we may fall victims to this criminal one day.

Let's be vigilant and report criminal activities to the police before it is too late.

Let's be mindful that we all have a stake in national development. And uncovering corrupt practices is part of national development.

Money and financial institutions should also pay particular focus on people who sometimes deal in foreign exchange.

 The dealing of some forex exchange Bureaus needs to be looked into. In as much as the government creates an enabling environment for doing business, it should be within the spirit of patriotism and alarm any shoddy dealings.

 We therefore commend The Gambia Police Force for their swift intervention and to take into custody the culprits. This loyalty to the nation demands action on time.

Each and everyone should be taught on the negative impact of money laundering and counterfeit.