Three men released under investigation in counterfeit coin probe

Three men arrested by police in connection with an investigation into the production of counterfeit currency in south Essex, including a Dunmow man, have been released under investigation.

Essex Police were aided by the National Crime Agency and the Royal Mint when they executed a warrant at a unit at the Southfields Business Park in Basildon on Friday, November 10.

A large amount of cash – thought to be a four figure sum – was seized during the operation along with the machinery that police believe was being used to produce counterfeit £2 coins.

A 64-year-old man from Dunmow was arrested on suspicion of possession of articles to make counterfeit currency, making counterfeit currency, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Two men, a 71-year-old from the Chelmsford area and a 56-year-old man from Stanford-le-Hope, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to make counterfeit money.

The three arrested men have been released under investigation while Essex Police continues its enquiries into the case.