Omanghana
The Bank of Ghana and the Ghana Police Service have arrested seven people in Accra for allegedly using cedi banknotes to produce money bouquets and cakes for commercial sale.
The suspects were apprehended at different locations during a joint enforcement operation, according to reports published on October 5, 2026. The exercise forms part of the central bank’s campaign against the alleged misuse of Ghana’s currency.
Speaking to journalists, Dianah Bondzi, Head of the Statistics Office at the Bank of Ghana’s Currency Management Department, warned against using banknotes and coins as decorations for weddings, birthdays, graduations and other celebrations.
She said the production of money bouquets, money cakes and similar items constituted improper use of the national currency. She also cautioned that people who assist, facilitate or promote such practices could face arrest and prosecution.
The arrests follow a public notice issued by the central bank on July 14, 2026, warning against turning currency into decorative arrangements. The bank said these products often involve folding, piercing, stapling or otherwise manipulating notes in ways that could damage them.
According to the Bank of Ghana, improper handling of banknotes and coins may constitute offences under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242). Its warning also covers spraying money at events, scattering or stepping on notes, and tearing, staining, defacing or otherwise damaging currency.
The central bank said its enforcement measures were intended to preserve the quality and functionality of the cedi and urged individuals and businesses to handle it responsibly.
Officials indicated that the suspects could face prosecution, with possible penalties including fines or imprisonment upon conviction.
Source: Omanghana
