Gowa, South Sulawesi, KOTABARI.COM – Police have uncovered a counterfeit money printing operation allegedly running within the premises of Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Alauddin, Samata, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi. The revelation shocked the public as it involved individuals connected to university officials and staff.
According to Gowa Police, counterfeit money worth hundreds of millions of rupiah and various production tools were confiscated from the scene. The operation came to light after officers from Pallangga Police Station apprehended a suspect distributing counterfeit money on November 26, 2024. Subsequent investigations led authorities to the counterfeit production site, which was surprisingly located inside the UIN Alauddin campus.
“Yes, several pieces of evidence and suspects have been secured at Gowa Police headquarters. For further details, please refer to the Criminal Investigation Department,” said Pallangga Police Chief, Iptu Firman, when contacted on Friday (December 13, 2024).
The case is still under investigation. Gowa Police spokesperson, Iptu Kusman Jaya, confirmed the discovery but stated that authorities are still probing the network and the extent of involvement by other parties. “We will issue an official release from the Criminal Investigation Department when ready,” he added on Saturday (December 14, 2024).
Involving Lecturers and University Staff
In the course of the investigation, police detained a lecturer from UIN Alauddin on November 30, 2024. The lecturer is suspected of playing a significant role in the counterfeit money network. Additionally, several university staff members are being questioned to ascertain their involvement.
Rector of UIN Alauddin Responds
The Rector of UIN Alauddin, Prof. Hamdan Juhannis, commented on the situation, emphasizing that the university is fully cooperating with law enforcement.
“Those arrested are isolated cases of individual wrongdoing. The information circulating in the media remains speculative, as the police have not yet released details of the investigation to the university,” Prof. Hamdan stated in a written statement received on Saturday (December 14, 2024).
The rector further assured that the university would impose strict sanctions if the police provide conclusive evidence of any staff involvement. “We await an official update from the police, and if there is proof of legal violations, we will take firm action against those involved,” he added.
The revelation of the counterfeit money operation has caused unease within the community. The ongoing investigation is expected to uncover the full scope of the operation and deter future crimes of this nature.