Ghanaian Social Media Influencer Arrested in Major U.S.-Focused Romance Scam
ACCRA, Ghana — A prominent Ghanaian social media personality has been apprehended in a significant international fraud case, accused of orchestrating a sophisticated romance scam that allegedly defrauded elderly Americans of over $8 million.
Frederick Kumi, 31, widely known online as Abu Trica, was arrested in Ghana this week following a joint operation involving Ghanaian security officers and U.S. authorities. He faces federal charges in the United States for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, crimes that carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years.
According to U.S. prosecutors, Kumi and his associates allegedly used artificial intelligence to create fake identities and profiles on social media and dating platforms. These fabricated personas were used to initiate contact with, befriend, and ultimately gain the trust of elderly victims across the United States. After establishing emotional connections, the scam artists would then fabricate crises and extort money from their targets.
“The accused and his network allegedly exploited the loneliness and goodwill of elderly victims through elaborate lies and technological deception,” a source familiar with the investigation stated.
The U.S. Department of Justice is now seeking Kumi’s extradition to face trial. Authorities allege that the proceeds of the multi-million dollar scheme were shared among associates based in both Ghana and the United States.
This arrest marks a notable development in a broader U.S. crackdown on complex fraud networks based in West Africa, which have increasingly targeted older American citizens. These networks often leverage technology, including AI and voice-altering software, to create convincing false narratives and evade detection.
“The arrest sends a clear message that international borders will not protect those who prey on vulnerable citizens,” a statement from U.S. officials read. “We are committed to working with our international partners to disrupt these criminal enterprises.”
Kumi remains in custody in Ghana as extradition proceedings begin. His case highlights the evolving and transnational nature of cyber-enabled financial crimes and the increasing use of advanced technology by criminal groups to perpetrate fraud.
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