National Security Council Dismantles Counterfeit Currency Operation in Ghana

The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has successfully dismantled organized criminal syndicates involved in the large-scale production and distribution of counterfeit Ghanaian and foreign currencies. Six coordinated intelligence-led operations conducted between June 12 and July 24, 2026, resulted in the arrest of 16 principal suspects, including both Ghanaian and foreign nationals, and the dismantling of four counterfeit currency printing hubs located in the Greater Accra Region and surrounding districts.

These operations also led to the seizure of four currency printing machines, six vehicles, and two motorcycles that were allegedly used by the syndicates to transport and distribute the counterfeit notes. In a statement issued by the NSCS, it was reported that counterfeit currencies amounting to US$543,000, GH¢196,600, and CFA60,000 were recovered in ready-to-spend notes. Additionally, the agencies seized unprocessed coupons that could potentially be converted into counterfeit currency, totaling US$5.293 million, GH¢19.553 million, and CFA623.55 million.

The operations followed months of covert intelligence gathering and mapping of suspected counterfeit currency networks, prompted by reports of fake notes infiltrating commercial centers, foreign exchange markets, and financial networks. The intelligence-led operations specifically targeted high-level organized transnational and domestic criminal syndicates operating across the Greater Accra Region and adjoining areas.

Coordinated Raids Target Criminal Syndicates

Subsequently, tactical units executed six coordinated raids on the syndicates’ primary operational hubs. The 16 suspects, along with the seized physical and digital evidence, have been transferred to the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) for forensic examination and further investigations. The security agencies have also completed and submitted case dockets to the Office of the Attorney-General for consideration of prosecution.

Cleared to File

The NSCS emphasized that these operations are part of ongoing efforts to disrupt organized criminal networks involved in currency counterfeiting and to protect the integrity of Ghana’s financial system. The statement did not disclose the identities of the suspects or provide details about the specific locations of the printing hubs. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether any of the counterfeit currency had successfully entered circulation or which financial institutions or businesses may have been affected.

Further details are expected to emerge as forensic examinations of the seized evidence and investigations into the suspects continue.