The Bank of Ghana has clarified that its currency containers are not designed for criminal purposes, as a recent National Security operation suggested.
According to the apex bank, the boxes are durable and robust, and while primarily used for carrying currency, they can also serve other purposes.
It noted that the boxes could be repurposed and used for alternative, non-currency-related functions.
In a write-up titled “Use and Misuse of Bank of Ghana Currency Transport Boxes,” the BoG debunked assertions that it may be involved in the criminal use of these boxes, stating that the wooden containers are used for currency import operations and are occasionally repurposed after official use.
“These boxes are robust, reusable, and well-suited to withstand wear and tear associated with logistics,” the write-up noted.
The Bank explained that commercial banks often return empty boxes and find alternative, non-currency uses for them.
“However, due to their durability, some members of the public have repurposed them for domestic and commercial uses, including storage and transport,” the Bank added.
However, the BoG drew a clear line indicating that any misuse of these boxes, particularly for criminal activities, must be treated with the seriousness it deserves.
“The BOG cannot be associated with any misuse of these boxes for criminal or unauthorized activities. Reports have emerged indicating that certain individuals are using these boxes to implicate the Bank or undermine public trust in its operations.
“Misuse of such boxes for criminal activities must be thoroughly investigated… and all persons found culpable prosecuted,” the Bank added.
The BoG emphasised that linking it to criminal activities is false and damaging to its reputation, stressing that a reused currency box does not carry the authority or endorsement of the nation’s central bank.
A National Security operation recently uncovered fake currency notes stored in Bank of Ghana currency boxes in Sapeiman, believed to belong to some unscrupulous individuals.
Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
