Counterfeit money

From Suara Karya

Case after case of counterfeit money has recently been disclosed. I have been following the media reports with concern because I, like anyone, could have some fake money in my wallet. Like most citizens I do not have a ultraviolet lamp to check the genuineness of banknotes. Whenever I receive money I just trust that it is genuine, except when a banknote clearly shows some irregularity.

The increased activities of the authorities to publicize the cases of counterfeit money have given rise to some ambiguity. On the one hand I am glad that such cases are disclosed because it shows that the matter is taken seriously. On the other hand I feel a certain anxiety.

Why? If we go to a shop and spend some money, there is a possibility that some fake banknotes will be found among our payment. It may have unwanted consequences. Our case may be reported to the authorities, who will then interrogate us about the money.

A problem arises if the authorities do not believe that we really do not know from where the money came. Even if we remember who gave us the money, would he admit that the money came from him?

I am worried that the situation may be misused by some authorities to extort money from people by accusing them of circulating counterfeit money. This is not pure fantasy. On many occasions people have been the victim of some officials, in cases of traffic violations, moral conduct, narcotics, etc.

The possibility of such a threat in relation to counterfeit money is strong. This cannot be responded to with a statement by the authorities like, "If you are not guilty, you need not worry." Many people have experienced how difficult it is to deal with the authorities when accused of wrongdoing.

I appeal to the authorities in charge of law enforcement to anticipate the possibility of irregular conduct on the part of their subordinates.

SULARSO

Depok, West Java