Ashdod Businesses Flooded with Fake 200 Shekel Notes by Youths

Business owners in Ashdod are grappling with a wave of counterfeit 200 shekel notes being circulated, primarily by teenagers and young adults in the city's Haredi neighborhoods. The suspects allegedly enter businesses, purchase goods, sometimes high-value items, and pay with the fake currency. One large store owner reported losses of 2,500 shekels, including giving real change for the fraudulent bills. "Fortunately, there are security cameras, and we'll make sure they are dealt with," he stated, adding he believes the perpetrators are not local residents. Another clothing store owner reported a loss of approximately 1,500 shekels from similar transactions. Business owners estimate that dozens of establishments, including clothing, shoe, food, and convenience stores, have been affected in recent days, with cumulative damages reaching tens of thousands of shekels. Business owners have contacted the police to request assistance in identifying and apprehending the suspects. It is estimated that the counterfeit notes were purchased from criminal elements, with fake 200 shekel bills costing as little as 20 shekels each.