National Security names pastor among suspects after counterfeit currency hubs uncovered

# What happened Security agencies in Ghana carried out six intelligence-led operations between June 12 and July 24, 2026, targeting networks allegedly producing and distributing counterfeit Ghanaian and foreign currency. The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) reported the dismantling of four alleged printing hubs and the arrest of 16 suspects.

# Key evidence and seizures Authorities seized four currency-printing machines, six vehicles and two motorcycles. Investigators also recovered finished counterfeit notes and large volumes of unprocessed currency coupons reportedly intended for printing. Reported seizures included:

• Finished counterfeit notes: US$543,000, GH¢196,600 and CFA60,000.

# Suspects and locations The operations occurred in the Greater Accra Region and surrounding districts, with specific actions at an office facility in Lashibi and at a religious facility in Klagon. The NSCS said five people were arrested during a June 29 operation at Lashibi and Klagon. In total 16 principal suspects were arrested and transferred to the Bureau of National Intelligence for forensic examination and legal processes.

Rev. Emmanuel Boakye-Danquah, a pastor linked to the Klagon religious facility, is named by the NSCS as a suspect and is at large. Other named suspects reported to be at large include Adamu Haruna and Amankwah Bismark. Intelligence teams remain deployed to locate and arrest remaining suspects.

# Legal follow-up Physical and digital exhibits, along with the detained suspects, were transferred to the Bureau of National Intelligence for forensic work. Case dockets have been submitted to the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice. Prosecution proceedings are ongoing at the Accra High Court, General Jurisdiction.

# How the syndicate allegedly operated NSCS intelligence analysis indicated that some syndicates used churches and other religious premises to conceal counterfeit currency production and storage. The investigations reportedly followed months of covert intelligence gathering focused on networks operating around commercial hubs, foreign exchange markets and financial networks.

# Immediate consequences and next steps Security agencies have dismantled equipment and detained suspects, and they have moved seized items into forensic channels. Authorities have filed legal dockets and begun court proceedings while continuing efforts to arrest the suspects still at large.

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