Law enforcement authorities have dismantled a sophisticated counterfeiting network responsible for producing and distributing high-quality fake Euro banknotes.
The joint effort, led by the Italian Carabinieri, French National Police, and Europol, resulted in 63 arrests.
The Naples-based criminal syndicate specialized in producing intricate forgeries dubbed “Napoli Group” banknotes – a testament to their level of deception. The quality of these fakes was so high that specialists from the European Central Bank confirmed the meticulous replication of security features.
Investigators tracked down the group’s illicit activities, revealing at least 83 sales, seven courier arrests, and the seizure of €200,000 in counterfeit denominations of €20, €50, and €100 notes. The operation spanned several European countries, including France, Spain, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The investigation kicked off in January 2023 by anti-counterfeiting specialists within the Carabinieri, who quickly received support from Europol. The collaboration centered on taking down the Naples-based ring and halting their pan-European counterfeit banknote distribution.
