Accra, Ghana — Ghanaian authorities have arrested seven women in Accra for allegedly using cedi banknotes to make money bouquets and decorative cakes for sale, following a crackdown on the improper use of the country’s currency.

The women were arrested at separate locations across the capital during a joint operation by the Bank of Ghana and the police.

The central bank said the operation followed a tip-off about businesses using genuine cedi notes to produce the decorations. The suspects are expected to face prosecution.

Bank of Ghana warns against using cedi notes for decorations

The arrests follow a July 14 notice from the Bank of Ghana warning against using banknotes and coins to make money bouquets, jewelry and other decorative or artistic items.

The central bank has also prohibited practices including spraying money at events, scattering or stepping on banknotes, and tearing, crumpling, staining or otherwise defacing the currency.

Dinah Bonzi, head of the Statistics Office at the Bank of Ghana’s Currency Management Department, said people who engage in, promote or facilitate prohibited uses of the currency could face legal action.

Penalties may include fines or imprisonment under Ghanaian law, according to the central bank.

Money bouquets grow in popularity in Ghana

Money bouquets made with genuine cedi notes have become popular gifts for weddings, birthdays, graduations and other celebrations.

The Bank of Ghana said its restrictions are intended to protect the quality, integrity and functionality of the national currency.