The suspect, identified as Julius Banda, is accused of using a fake K500 note to purchase pork worth K50, while expecting K450 in change.
However, his plan was thwarted by alert trader Felix Samwenda, 23, of Mchini Compound in Mtenguleni Village, who detected the counterfeit note.
The incident occurred around 18:09 hours on Saturday at the busy Saturday Market in Chipata and was later reported to Zambia Police Service at Chipata Central Police Station.
According to reports, Mr Samwenda initially handed over K450 in change before noticing that the banknote appeared suspicious. Upon closer inspection and consultation with a fellow trader, the note was confirmed to be counterfeit.
The suspect had already left the scene, but traders launched a search and later apprehended him near Chipata College of Education.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed that the suspect was taken to Chipata Central Police Station, where another suspected counterfeit note was found in his possession.
Police have since opened a case docket, and the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
