Grande Prairie, Alta. – Since summer 2025, multiple businesses throughout Alberta have reported being paid for goods or services in counterfeit currency. Alberta RCMP Forensic Identification Section were able to identify the provenance of some of the bills and they were linked to an individual in Montreal, QC. Grande Prairie RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS) coordinated with the Service de Police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM), who, on March 13, 2026, executed a search warrant at an address in Montreal. As a result, two individuals were arrested and the following was seized:

• $750 in Canadian currency;

• $16200 in counterfeit money ($50 and $100 bills);

• 3 fake cellular devices;

• Holographic stickers for counterfeit money;

• 4 Fraudulent bank cards; and

• 1 device for stealing cars.

As a result of the investigation, two Montreal residents were arrested. Charges are pending analysis of the evidence but potential charges include:

• Making counterfeit money;

• Possession of counterfeit money; and

• Exporting counterfeit money.

No court date has been set in this file at this time.

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Dec. 14, 2025

Lloydminster RCMP warning public regarding counterfeit currency – Update/seeking public assistance

Lloydminster, Alta. - Between July 1, 2025 and Dec. 12, 2025, Lloydminster RCMP received 17 reports of counterfeit banknotes being passed at local businesses in Lloydminster. Similar occurrences have also been reported in the Edmonton area. Investigators believe these incidents may be related.

The investigation has revealed two suspects, one male and one female, who are believed to have attended retail businesses and made purchases using counterfeit currency. Suspect photos have been obtained, leading police to request public assistance in identifying them.

I f you have any information, or can identify the suspects, please contact the Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. To contact RCMP non-emergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction call 310-RCMP(7267).

Dec. 10, 2025

Lloydminster RCMP warning public regarding counterfeit currency

Lloydminster, Sask./Alta. — Lloydminster RCMP is advising local businesses and the public to be vigilant following several recent incidents involving counterfeit Canadian currency. Over the past few weeks, officers have responded to multiple reports of suspected counterfeit bills being passed in Lloydminster. Similar incidents have also been reported in the Edmonton area.

In each instance, individuals attempted to use counterfeit banknotes for purchases at local businesses. Investigators believe that some of the currency currently circulating may be of higher-quality reproduction, making it more difficult for frontline staff to identify without careful inspection.

Businesses are encouraged to take the following precautions:

• Carefully inspect all denominations, especially higher-value bills. Every bill should have a unique serial number;

• Become familiar with the security features of Canadian banknotes, including raised ink, transparent windows and holographic elements;

• Do not put yourself at risk — if you suspect a bill is counterfeit, refuse the transaction and contact police;

• Retain surveillance footage and note descriptions of individuals involved, if safe to do so.

Lloydminster RCMP is working with other RCMP detachments as well as financial institutions as part of the ongoing investigation.

“Counterfeit currency directly impacts local businesses and our community’s economy” said Sgt. Christopher Byford of the Lloydminster RCMP. “We are asking business owners and staff to stay alert and take a moment to verify bills during transactions. Your attentiveness helps us identify suspects and prevents further losses.”

Anyone who believes they have received counterfeit currency, or has information about these incidents, is asked to contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. To contact RCMP non-emergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction call 310-RCMP(7267).