A heartbreaking incident at Accra’s Korle Bu market has thrown the spotlight on the growing problem of counterfeit currency after a 67-year-old fishmonger, Grace Ofori, unknowingly accepted fake money amounting to GHS800 for her entire stock of smoked fish.
Grace, who sells fish to support her household and fund her grandchildren’s education, was left in shock when she tried depositing her earnings at a local bank and was told that all the notes were counterfeit. The cruel discovery not only cost her a day’s work but also deeply shook her emotionally.
The fraudulent transaction has stirred concerns within the Korle Bu trading community, prompting both authorities and concerned citizens to step in. Police have launched an investigation to trace the unidentified buyer who paid the fake cash and vanished without a trace.
In response to the incident, residents and fellow traders have shown strong support for Ofori, rallying behind her and calling for immediate action to prevent similar scams. Financial experts are now urging small business owners and market women to verify banknotes before accepting payments, especially when dealing with large amounts.
The emotional toll on Grace has been immense, yet she remains determined not to give up her trade. Her courage in the face of this setback has touched many, sparking a broader conversation on how vulnerable traders can be better protected.
The incident underscores the urgent need for public education on detecting counterfeit notes and for authorities—especially the Bank of Ghana—to intensify efforts to rid the system of fake currency. As the case unfolds, all eyes are on law enforcement and financial regulators to see if justice will be served and new safeguards introduced to protect everyday traders.
For now, Grace’s story stands as a painful reminder that behind every fake note is a real victim.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
