Anantapur Police Uncover Elaborate Chain Snatching and Counterfeit Currency Syndicate, Two Arrested

In a significant triumph against organized crime, Anantapur police have successfully dismantled a sophisticated operation involving both daring chain snatching and the insidious circulation of counterfeit currency. The meticulous investigation culminated in the arrest of two key individuals, bringing a renewed sense of security to the community and underscoring the relentless efforts of local law enforcement.

District Superintendent of Police (SP) S.R.

Anjaneya Reddy, addressing the media today, detailed the extensive probe that led to these crucial arrests. The apprehended individuals have been identified as S. Balaji, a 26-year-old resident of Gangavaram village, and B. Ravi Teja, 27, from Siddaramapuram village. Both were allegedly central figures in this multi-faceted criminal enterprise that terrorized residents and undermined economic stability.

The duo's modus operandi was a cunning blend of violence and deception.

Police revealed that Balaji and Ravi Teja primarily targeted unsuspecting women, ambushing them to snatch gold chains. Following these brazen robberies, they employed a clever, albeit illicit, method to launder their gains and circulate fake currency. They would use high-denomination counterfeit notes, specifically Rs.

500 denomination notes, to make purchases at various establishments. Subsequently, they would return the purchased goods, demanding genuine currency in return, effectively transforming their fake money into legitimate funds.

Acting on a surge of complaints regarding chain snatching incidents and suspicious currency transactions, special police teams were formed to track down the perpetrators.

The diligent efforts of these teams, utilizing intelligence gathering and surveillance, eventually led them to Balaji and Ravi Teja.

During the arrests, authorities made substantial recoveries, shedding light on the scale of their criminal activities. Police confiscated a staggering 350 grams of stolen gold, valued at an estimated Rs.

24.50 lakh. In addition, Rs. 50,000 in genuine currency, believed to be profits from their fake currency scheme, was seized. Further evidence of their illicit trade included 100 counterfeit Rs. 500 denomination notes, two motorcycles used in the commission of their crimes, and three mobile phones integral to their coordination.

This comprehensive haul underscores the significant impact of the police operation on disrupting a major criminal network within Anantapur district.