Seven arrested for using Ghanaian banknotes to make 'money bouquets'

What the report says

Ghanaian authorities have arrested seven people over allegations that they used cedi banknotes to create so-called “money bouquets,” a decorative practice that the central bank says amounts to misuse of the national currency. BBC Africa reported that the suspects, all women, were detained in Accra after a tip-off and a joint operation involving the Bank of Ghana and police.

According to the report, the bank considers the practice illegal because it can undermine the lawful use and value of the cedi. The enforcement action follows a warning issued by the central bank in July reminding the public that actions which depreciate, impair or otherwise abuse the currency can lead to penalties. Officials said the arrested women are believed to have been selling the bouquets in different parts of the capital.

The Bank of Ghana said the case is its largest enforcement step so far against currency misuse. Police have opened investigations, and the suspects are expected to be prosecuted. The report says a court would decide whether any punishment is a fine or a jail term. The issue matters beyond this case because cash displays at weddings, birthdays and other celebrations have become more common in Ghana, and central bank warnings suggest regulators are trying to discourage similar practices more broadly. BBC Africa noted that other African countries have also raised concerns about comparable forms of currency abuse.