Local businesses beware; counterfeit money circulating in community

A Merritt business is warning others in the community that counterfeit money is circulating in the region.

Sonya and Bobby Garcia, proprietors of Yaki Joe’s Pizzeria in Merritt and Kamloops, said Tuesday that their Merritt location was a victim of receiving bogus bills.

“Unfortunately, our business (Yaki Joe’s)  received a counterfeit $50 bill, and we have heard from other businesses that have also been scammed,” Bobby Garcia told Q101 news.

Staff Sgt. Josh Roda encouraged all businesses in Merritt to remain vigilant when handling cash transactions.

“Counterfeit currency does surface from time to time, and the best protection is awareness,” said Roda.

Roda encouraged all staff at local businesses to take a moment to inspect the bills,

“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to refuse the bill.” Roda added.” We (RCMP) also ask businesses to report any suspected counterfeit notes to police right away, as this helps us track patterns and protect the wider community.”

Yaki Joe’s Pizzeria was not the only business recently exposed to the fake currency. Kekuli Cafe also received a phony $50 bill, as well as Save On Foods.

Back of the Bogus Bills. (Courtesy: Debra Jewel-Eisinga)

Last year (2024), the Bank of Canada reported that the volume of counterfeit notes decreased by 64 per cent compared to numbers in 2014.

Sgt. Roda noted that with the Christmas season fast approaching, residents and business owners should keep safety top of mind.

“We remind residents and business owners to safeguard valuables, especially during the holiday season,” Roda stated. “Presents and other items left in vehicles can be tempting targets for theft, so keeping them out of sight or locked away is an important step in crime prevention.”