‘Chinese fifties’ allegedly used to pay Geraldton taxi fare

Chinese “training currency” was allegedly used to pay for a taxi fare in Geraldton last night.

Sergeant Paul Johnson of Geraldton Police Station said the taxi driver took two notes, which look like Australian $50 bills with Chinese lettering, as payment for a $15 fare.

“It’s not really counterfeit – it’s more toy money, used in China as a training aid for people coming to Australia so that they understand currency values,” Sgt Johnson said.

“The paper is poor, the printing is poor, there is no embossing, etc, on it – and it has Chinese writing on it.”

Police are investigating the alleged fraud and are urging anyone with information to contact the station on 9923 4555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Shop owners and anyone buying goods on social media are also advised to exercise care.

“If anyone comes across the currency we ask them to bring it to the station so we can get it out of circulation,” Sgt Johnson said.