Nukuʻalofa – The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) has issued a warning about an increase in counterfeit banknotes circulating in the country.
The central bank says fake notes have been detected imitating the design of genuine paʻanga currency, and urges the public and businesses to exercise caution when handling cash.
According to the NRBT, counterfeit $100 paʻanga notes from the King Tupou V series have been detected.
These fake notes are printed on clear plastic material to imitate the transparent window feature of genuine $100 notes.
The NRBT clarified that authentic $100 paʻanga notes are not printed on plastic.
The bank also reported counterfeit $5 paʻanga notes from the King Tupou VI 2015 series. These notes are printed on ordinary paper and attempt to replicate the design of the genuine 2015 $5 series.
In addition, fake $50 paʻanga notes from the King Tupou VI 2015 series have been found.
These counterfeits are printed on plain paper, lack serial numbers, and are smaller in size compared to genuine notes.
Some fake notes have been printed on clear plastic material to resemble the transparent window of genuine high-value notes, while others are made from ordinary paper and even plain sheets without serial numbers.
These counterfeits are often smaller in size and do not meet the quality standards of authentic banknotes.
The NRBT believes more counterfeit notes remain in circulation and warns that informal businesses dealing primarily in cash are particularly vulnerable.
The bank is encouraging the public to inspect all banknotes carefully before accepting them and to familiarise themselves with the security features of genuine currency.
Producing, possessing, or knowingly using counterfeit currency is a serious criminal offence.
Anyone who suspects a counterfeit note is urged to report it immediately to the NRBT or the nearest police station.
