Article Today, Bhopal:
A government doctor in Madhya Pradesh has been arrested for allegedly heading a counterfeit currency network spanning multiple States. The accused, Prateek Navlakhe, had earlier been lodged in Khandwa jail in connection with a financial fraud case. Investigators say that during his imprisonment he developed close links with seasoned offenders. After his release, he and his associates reportedly revived organised illegal activities with renewed coordination. Officials believe the jail environment enabled the group to consolidate and plan their operations.
Fake Currency Printed in Rented Flat
According to the police, Navlakhe and his associates rented a flat in the Gokuldham Society area of Bhopal and converted it into a full-scale unit for printing fake notes. The team allegedly produced counterfeit Rs. 500 currency using high-quality printers and cutting tools. Officials state that the printed notes were of such quality that even traders struggled to detect the forgeries. The gang is suspected to have circulated the fake notes across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Investigators say the group posed as a travel agency to conceal its activities and avoid public scrutiny.
Illegal Proceeds Used for Money Laundering
The probe has revealed that the accused extended their operations beyond currency printing. The gang allegedly purchased properties and engaged in money laundering using the counterfeit currency. A key associate, Maulana Zubair Ansari, reportedly distributed the fake notes in Nagpur, Malegaon and surrounding areas. The police say the circulation of the notes across multiple jurisdictions allowed the group to avoid early detection. Further details of their financial transactions are still being examined.
Breakthrough After Initial Setback
Police arrested Ansari on November 2 and seized a quantity of fake notes. However, Navlakhe reportedly attempted to evade arrest by claiming he was travelling for the Char Dham pilgrimage. Officials admit that locating him proved difficult due to his high mobility and prior exposure to criminal networks. On Sunday, the Bhopal police finally apprehended all three accused after tracking their movements for several days. Investigators have not yet determined the total volume of counterfeit currency already in circulation.
Investigation Continues
The police are now scrutinising digital records, financial trails and documents recovered from the rented flat. They are also coordinating with law-enforcement agencies in neighbouring States to trace the distribution routes. Officials say that further arrests are likely as the inquiry progresses. The case has raised concerns about internal security and the vulnerability of public systems when trained professionals engage in organised criminal networks.
