Cape Breton Island 
Authorities have confiscated more than $100,000 in counterfeit Canadian currency as part of an investigation led by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Nova Scotia RCMP’s Commercial Crime Section.
On January 9, CBSA officers at Mirabel International Airport in Quebec intercepted a package containing counterfeit holographic stickers designed to mimic security features on Canadian banknotes. Later, on January 27, officers at an international cargo facility in Mississauga, Ontario, seized approximately $30,000 in counterfeit $10, $20, $50, and $100 bills.
Both shipments, originating from China, were addressed to the same location in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia. CBSA officials reported the findings to the RCMP, leading to a coordinated investigation involving the agency’s Atlantic Region Intelligence and Enforcement Division and the Bank of Canada.
On February 11, the RCMP, with support from the Provincial Proceeds of Crime Section and Cape Breton Regional Police, executed a search warrant at a Glace Bay residence. Officers seized around $70,000 in counterfeit currency, holographic stickers, electronic devices, and a firearm.
“Unfortunately, counterfeit money is in circulation across the country,” said Cpl. Mitch Thompson of the Commercial Crime Section, in a statement, as he warned that counterfeit bills can appear authentic, particularly when printed on polymer. He urged the public to verify security features when handling cash.
The investigation remains ongoing, with assistance from the National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau.
Authorities encourage the public to report suspicious transactions or counterfeit currency to law enforcement or Crime Stoppers.
