The first counterfeit of the new $1,000 banknote has been found, a senior police officer confirmed yesterday.
It was discovered in September, nine months after HSBC and the Monetary Authority unveiled the notes - which each contain three added security features to combat counterfeiters.
The forged note came to light when a bank teller identified it during a transaction. The teller had been given the note by an elderly man. But details were only released yesterday.
The man told investigators from the Commercial Crime Bureau that he received the fake banknote from a tenant of one of his properties. He was released unconditionally after helping with inquiries.
No arrests have been made.
Superintendent John Ribeiro, who is heading the investigation, confirmed the discovery but described it as an amateur attempt at forgery.
