The Reserve Bank today announced that under the Banking Act 0f 2015, the possession of pre-decimal currency is now illegal. A recent article on " Fair Go" about untouched Bank Accounts, that if no action takes place for ten years. Then the account is terminated and the monies are forfeited to the Inland Revenue. Bought about a review of the Act by the Reserve Bank. A spokesperson for The Reserve Bank, said, that the bank now considers lost pre decimal currency is deemed to be a deposit. Whether it was in the Bank or in the ground. It is a known fact that some people bury their money. And under the Banking Act of 2015, we consider that, as making a deposit, and therefore an earthly non interest bearing account.
We are aware that Metal Detectorists have been making illegal withdrawals from these accounts. And some have built up substantial hordes of pre-decimal currency. The main culprits appear to be based in Christchurch, where they have been over the years actively intercepting these accounts. Mainly from the "Bank of Hagley Park" and other provincial Canterbury Banking Parks.
We are aware of a New Zealand Detecting Forum, where these people are posting pictures of their illegal withdrawals. As they use nicknames or internet nome de plumes they are difficult to trace. Three have been isolated as being the main offenders. One we call " Silver Eric" another " Chrispy the Half Crown. And the third culprit is known to us as Number8 Thrupence.
These people should be aware that their activities are now illegal as are their hoards of pre decimal coins. They have the option of surrendering the coinage to the Reserve Bank or facing Prosecution.
We have also placed undercover Reserve Bank Investigators in various Historical Parks and recreational area's throughout New Zealand to stop these now illegal activities. Some are equipped with Metal Detectors, so as to be accepted. And then where bye they can obtain cell phone numbers or addresses. We have also deployed Coinage Sniffer Dogs, which can smell an illegal withdrawal or possession of any illegal coins.
All our undercover operatives are equipped with Night Vision equipment, and radio frequency electronic detecting equipment which can register the signal generated by a Metal Detector from up to 500 metres. Any offenders apprehended shall automatically have their detecting equipment siezed and their vehicles. Which shall be forfeit to the Crown. And then face Court Proceedings under the said Act which carries a fine of up to $200,000 dollars or ten years imprisonment.
Bloody hell, I knew our Government was eager for more money, but this is just bloody ridiculous. What next. I shudder to think. Hey Chrispy the Half Crown, best you lock away the Etrac and get the Gold Bug back out again if you want to do anymore detecting. Bet there is gunna be lots of good stuff real cheap on " Buy Sell Trade" soon.
Cheers Trev aka " The Hatter"
