Teen Gang Uses Fake Money, Violence Against Ashdod Businesses

A gang of teenagers has been targeting businesses in the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) neighborhoods of Ashdod in recent weeks, purchasing goods with counterfeit bills and resorting to violence when confronted. The group systematically operates by visiting businesses, buying products, and paying with fake money, primarily in neighborhoods Gimmel and Zayin. The scheme involves the youths acting as couriers to distribute the counterfeit currency throughout the city.

Beyond the fraud, the gang has also employed physical violence against business owners who discovered the deception and attempted to address it. One business owner described the attacks as "severe violence" and urged colleagues to immediately call the police upon suspecting any illicit activity.

The Israel Police are aware of the situation and are focusing intelligence and operational efforts on identifying the individuals orchestrating the operation and managing the counterfeiting network behind the teenagers. Business owners across Ashdod are being advised to significantly increase their vigilance, carefully inspect all bills and coins received, and avoid direct confrontation to prevent escalation, while promptly contacting the police hotline.