Ahmedabad: The probe into a counterfeit currency racket allegedly run from a Surat-based yoga ashram has intensified, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) joining the investigation. The Ahmedabad Crime Branch had busted the racket earlier this month, seizing fake notes with a face value of ₹2.38 crore across Ahmedabad and Surat.

The case was cracked on March 18 after seven persons, including a yoga instructor, were arrested while transporting fake currency from Surat to Ahmedabad. Police recovered 44,053 counterfeit ₹500 notes worth about ₹2.10 crore from an intercepted SUV in Amraiwadi.

Subsequent raids in Surat uncovered a printing unit operating for nearly four months, leading to the seizure of fake notes worth ₹28 lakh along with printers, a laptop, and other equipment.

Investigators said the alleged mastermind travelled to China to procure specialised printing paper. His claim of visiting for yoga equipment purchases did not match findings.

The accused are suspected to have built a network to circulate fake currency across regions, with properties in Surat and Rajkot and some vehicles allegedly bought using counterfeit money. Financial transactions are under scrutiny.

Officials are also probing the possible role of government functionaries and a retired IPS officer in converting unaccounted money. With the NIA stepping in, the investigation is now expected to examine interstate and international links of the racket. DeshGujarat