The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued a stern warning to the public, stating that any misuse, abuse or illegal handling of Ghana cedi notes and coins may result in arrest, prosecution, fines or imprisonment. The notice follows rising concerns over practices such as spraying money at events, scattering notes on the ground, stepping or dancing on currency, and using banknotes to create money bouquets, jewellery and other decorations.
BoG said that such activities undermine the quality, integrity, functionality and image of the national currency. It specifically singled out the growing trend of creating money bouquets for weddings, birthdays, graduations and similar occasions as improper use and a violation of the law. The bank also warned against tearing, crumpling, staining, soiling, writing on, cutting or otherwise defacing banknotes and coins, using images of Ghanaian banknotes or coins without permission, and buying or selling coins for amounts exceeding their face value.
According to the central bank, currency notes and coins are intended exclusively as legal tender and should not be tampered with, mutilated or defaced. BoG highlighted the substantial resources it spends on printing and minting currency, calling on the public to help preserve the integrity and functionality of the Ghana cedi.
The Bank has also announced that it has partnered with state law enforcement agencies to deal decisively with persons found engaging in prohibited acts. Law enforcement agencies will monitor the use of currency notes and coins and take appropriate action, including arrest and prosecution of individuals who misuse or improperly handle money.
“The public is strongly advised to desist from all forms of currency misuse,” the Bank said, urging individuals, businesses and institutions to handle the national currency responsibly and report any breaches to the appropriate authorities.
