7 Arrested Over Money Bouquets

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) and Ghana Police Service have apprehended seven individuals in Accra for allegedly creating money bouquets and cakes using Ghana cedi notes for commercial purposes, as part of a crackdown on the misuse of Ghanaian currency. The head of the Currency Management Department at the BoG, Dinah Bonzi, stated that the arrests were aimed at warning those involved in the illicit practice, as using banknotes and coins to decorate items for events such as weddings and birthdays is illegal.

The seven suspects were arrested at different locations in Accra after being found producing the items for commercial gain. Bonzi emphasized that the cedi is the legal tender of Ghana and must be treated with respect, warning that misuse or abuse of the currency could lead to criminal sanctions. The BoG has previously cautioned the public against engaging in practices such as spraying money at events, making bouquets, or altering currency notes.

Ms. Bonzi urged the public to handle the Ghana cedi with dignity and stressed that the latest arrests serve as a warning to anyone involved in the misuse of the currency, with suspects facing potential fines or imprisonment.