In a remarkable display of integrity and vigilance, police officers in Odumase-Krobo have thwarted an attempt by a counterfeit currency syndicate to bribe them with a whopping GH¢200,000 following the arrest of three suspects in possession of over one million US dollars in fake currency.
The Eastern Regional Police Command revealed that the suspects were apprehended on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, during a carefully planned intelligence-led operation spearheaded by Detective Corporal Williams Asante of the Odumase-Krobo Police Command and ASP Augustine Asante Kusi of the Koforidua Municipal Investigative Team.
Detective Corporal Asante shared that the syndicate had been under close surveillance for weeks due to suspected counterfeit activities spanning both the Greater Accra and Eastern Regions. Their patience paid off when they uncovered the group's illegal operations.
The suspects—Ebenezer Natsu, 20; George Attor, 48; and Bishop Robert Olertey, 54—were found with 105 bundles of counterfeit US$100 notes totaling a staggering US$1,050,000. The fake currency was neatly hidden in a black and red-spotted metal trunk at a secret location in Laasi. Authorities believe the group planned to circulate the counterfeit dollars at Odumase-Krobo market in exchange for Ghana cedis.
In a brazen move to evade arrest, Olertey reportedly offered the officers GH¢200,000 as a bribe. However, the officers stood firm and rejected the offer, demonstrating their commitment to upholding justice and integrity.
Following their arrest, the suspects were initially taken to the Odumase-Krobo District Police Command before being transferred to the Akosombo Police Division under Chief Superintendent Doris Grant for further investigations. On March 13, 2026, the Odumase Circuit Court remanded Natsu into custody to assist investigations, while Attor and Olertey were granted police enquiry bail.
The police described the syndicate as highly organized, targeting bustling markets to exchange counterfeit currency for genuine local notes. Authorities are optimistic that further arrests will be made as investigations progress.
Chief Superintendent Grant commended the officers involved for their diligence and dedication, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. She emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating economic crimes.
The Ghana Police Service reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on bribery, fraud, and economic crimes, assuring citizens that such unlawful activities will not be tolerated.
As investigations continue, this operation serves as a reminder of the crucial role law enforcement plays in safeguarding the economy and maintaining public trust. Kudos to the officers for their exemplary courage and integrity.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
