West Champaran: Police in Bihar’s West Champaran district have uncovered what officials describe as a significant breakthrough in a counterfeit currency investigation after seizing specialised paper allegedly used for printing fake notes near the India–Nepal border.
The operation, carried out in the Narkatiaganj–Sikta belt, has led to the arrest of two men and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and material suspected to be linked to the production of counterfeit currency. A third suspect managed to escape and is currently at large.
Acting on intelligence inputs about suspicious cross-border movement, a police team cordoned off the Bhediharwa area under Kangli police station limits. Officers intercepted a group travelling on a motorcycle. On spotting the police, the suspects attempted to flee, prompting a brief chase before two of them were apprehended.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Jwala Singh and Sachin Kumar, both residents of Sukhalahiya village in East Champaran district.
During a search operation, police recovered a country-made pistol and live cartridges from Jwala Singh. More significantly, officers say they found a bundle of “special paper” in their possession, which is suspected to be used in the printing of counterfeit currency. Officials have described this as an unusual and potentially important recovery in the case.
The motorcycle used by the accused has also been seized.
Police believe the findings suggest the group may be involved not only in circulating fake currency but also in its production. The recovery of specialised paper has prompted investigators to expand the scope of the probe, including possible supply chains and technical networks operating across the border.
Security agencies have since intensified surveillance in the region, with particular focus on possible cross-border linkages. Preliminary suspicions suggest the network could have connections extending beyond the immediate area, though officials have not confirmed any international involvement.
Jaiprakash Singh, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), said a manhunt is underway for the absconding suspect and indicated that further revelations are likely as the investigation progresses.
“We are continuing raids and interrogations. The absconding accused will be arrested soon, and more facts will emerge in due course,” he said.
The India–Nepal border region in Bihar has long been considered sensitive due to porous terrain and frequent reports of smuggling and illegal cross-border activity. The latest seizure has once again raised concerns over organised networks potentially exploiting these routes. Investigations are ongoing.
