Three arrested for possession of over $1 million counterfeit

The Ghana Police Service has arrested three men in the Eastern Region for possessing more than $1 million in counterfeit US dollars.

The suspects Ebenezer Natsu (20), George Attor (48), and Bishop Robert Olertey (54) were apprehended in Laasi, a suburb of Odumase-Krobo, following an intelligence-led operation by the Koforidua Municipal Investigative Team led by Augustine Asante Kusi.

Police said the men were found with 105 bundles of counterfeit US $100 notes, amounting to $1,050,000, concealed in a black-and-red spotted metal trunk at their hideout. The operation, coordinated by D/Cpl Williams Asante, targeted the suspects after intelligence suggested they were planning to circulate the fake currency in exchange for Ghana cedis, particularly during the Odumase Krobo market day.

Authorities further revealed that one suspect, Bishop Robert Olertey, allegedly offered GH¢200,000 in real cash to settle the matter and avoid arrest. However, the offer was rejected, and the suspects were taken into custody along with the seized counterfeit notes.

The trio was initially held at the Odumase-Krobo District Police Command before being handed over to the Akosombo Police Division, under Chief Superintendent Doris Grant, for further investigation and legal action.

On Friday, March 13, 2026, Ebenezer Natsu was arraigned before the Odumase Circuit Court and remanded in police custody to assist with ongoing investigations, while George Attor and Bishop Robert Olertey were granted police enquiry bail pending further inquiries.

The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to tackling financial crimes and protecting the integrity of the country’s economy. Officials emphasized that intelligence-led operations will continue across regions to identify and apprehend individuals engaged in counterfeit and other financial schemes.

The arrests highlight the growing sophistication of counterfeit operations in Ghana and serve as a warning to those involved in illegal currency dealings. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities.