Four men have been arrested in connection with the alleged distribution of counterfeit banknotes.

The group were in a vehicle on the A9 in Ross-shire when they were stopped by police on Monday.

The men, aged 16, 20, 23 and 25, are expected to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

Detective Inspector Scott Macdonald said: "Police have received a number of reports of counterfeit banknotes being used in the Inverness and Ross-shire areas in recent weeks.

"These are being tendered for low-cost items in shops in the Highlands and later being found to be counterfeit currency.

"Police are advising those members of the public who are dealing with cash sales to bear this in mind and check high value banknotes before giving change. Anyone who deliberately uses counterfeit currency is committing crime and we will investigate all instances reported to us."

Officers have seized a few notes which were passed to them by shopkeepers.

The four men, who are not from the local area, will be reported to the procurator fiscal.

Anyone who has any information about counterfeit banknotes or wishes to report having received one should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.