The National Bureau of Investigation-Counter Terrorism Division (NBI-CTD) arrested three persons involved in the illegal manufacturing of local and foreign currencies.
In a statement released on Monday, the NBI has identified the suspects as Richard Ansus and his two cohorts Anthony Cuatico and Irmalynne Pablo as they were arrested in a joint operation conducted by a composite team of operatives of the NBI-CTD and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on March 10 at the LRC compound in Sta. Cruz, Manila.
The conduct of the operation was based on BSP’s request for the NBI to assist in the agency’s implementation of a Search Warrant issued by Branch 50 of the Regional Trial Court of Manila.
Based on intelligence report, Ansus is engaged in the illegal manufacture, production and proliferation of counterfeit Philippine and foreign currencies.
Upon approval of said request, the NBI-CTD coordinated with the BSP Currency Issue and Integrity Office for the immediate implementation of the Search Warrant resulting in the arrest on March 10 of the three persons, who were found in possession of several counterfeit currencies.
Inquest documents are now being prepared against the suspects for violations of the Revised Penal Code, Article 168 (Illegal possession and use of false treasury or bank notes and other instruments of credit) and Article 176 (Manufacture and possession of instruments or implements for falsification). (PNA)