Seven people have been arrested in Accra for allegedly using Ghana cedi notes to create money bouquets and cakes for commercial purposes.
The arrests form part of a nationwide crackdown by the Bank of Ghana (BoG), in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, on the misuse, abuse and illegal handling of Ghana cedi notes and coins.
Speaking to Accra-based Citi FM, the Head of the Statistics Office at the Currency Management Department of the Bank of Ghana, Dinah Bonzi, said the exercise was intended to send a strong warning to individuals and businesses engaged in the practice.
She said the use of banknotes and coins to create money bouquets and money cakes for weddings, birthdays, graduations and other events constitutes the misuse and abuse of the currency and is unlawful.
Ms Bonzi warned that individuals found engaging in, aiding, promoting or facilitating such activities could be arrested and prosecuted by the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
She stressed that the Ghana cedi is the legal tender of the Republic of Ghana and must be handled with respect.
According to the Bank of Ghana, the seven individuals arrested will face prosecution, with possible sanctions including fines or imprisonment.
Ms Bonzi said the latest arrests should serve as a warning to the public to handle Ghana cedi notes and coins appropriately and avoid practices that could amount to their misuse or abuse.
