Iranian caught passing fake bills

MANILA, Philippines - An Iranian man was arrested after he allegedly tried to exchange 30 counterfeit $100 bills at the casino of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City Saturday night.

The money seized from Mirzaei Mahji, 30, will be “submitted for examination” by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, according to Chief Inspector Jenny Tecson, spokesman of the Southern Police District.

The Philippine Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) will act as the temporary complainant against Mahji, Tecson said.

Mahji is set for inquest for the violation of Article 168 of the Revised Penal Code, which refers to illegal possession and use of false treasury or bank notes and other instruments of credit.