Police charge three over fake currency

Three African men have been arrested on charges of selling counterfeit US currency in Ras al Khaimah, another twist on recent money-doubling scams that have been plaguing the Emirates. The organised-crime section of the RAK Criminal Investigation Department received a number of tips from the public about the men's activities, said Brig Abdullah Khamees al Haddedy, the chief of the CID. The department put them under surveillance and later obtained a court order and arrested them at a residence in RAK. Police reported finding US$160 (Dh587) in counterfeit notes in the residence. The three men, all living illegally in the emirate, confessed to dealing in counterfeit currency, said Brig al Haddedy. Members of the public needed to be aware of such schemes and contact police if anyone offers to double their money, he said. "In a rapidly growing society, RAK needs the combined efforts of its people," he said. "The police force will perform better when the citizens decide to take part in protecting their society." newsdesk@thenational.ae