Accra:A significant operation has resulted in the arrest of 16 suspects involved in alleged counterfeit currency production and distribution in Ghana, with a pastor and a fetish priest among those detained, while another pastor remains at large.
According to Ghana Web, the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), in collaboration with security and intelligence agencies, dismantled four major counterfeit currency printing operations during a nationwide crackdown. The operations, which took place between June 12 and July 24, 2026, led to the seizure of printing machines, vehicles, motorcycles, counterfeit notes, currency coupons, and fake gold bars.
The NSCS reported that six coordinated raids were executed across the Greater Accra Region and nearby districts, following extensive intelligence gathering. Notably, Nana Nyarko Derrick Dapaah was arrested in a raid at Amuzu, Kasoa, where a residential compound, allegedly operating as a traditional spiritual center, was discovered.
During separate operations in Lashibi and Klagon, five individuals were apprehended after authorities uncovered printing equipment at an office. Further investigations led to a religious facility in Klagon, where counterfeit currency production and storage were allegedly taking place, resulting in the seizure of another printing machine and operational vehicles.
The NSCS disclosed the recovery of substantial amounts of counterfeit currency coupons and finished notes, including US$5,287,900, CFA 623,530,000, and GHS7,129,000, intended for additional printing. The operations also identified Rev Emmanuel Boakye-Danquah as a suspect at large.
Authorities highlighted the use of religious and traditional spiritual premises by criminal networks as a cover for their illicit activities. The NSCS emphasized that these locations provided concealment for counterfeit operations, reducing suspicion.
Throughout the raids, security agencies confiscated significant amounts of counterfeit currency and unprocessed coupons, disrupting what officials described as a potential threat to monetary stability. The arrested suspects and seized evidence have been transferred to the Bureau of National Intelligence for further examination.
Prosecution proceedings are ongoing at the Accra High Court, with special intelligence teams deployed to locate remaining suspects, including Rev Emmanuel Boakye-Danquah. The NSCS has called for increased vigilance by financial institutions and property administrators to prevent similar illegal activities on their premises.