A popular Ghanaian social media influencer known as Abu Trica, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, has been arrested over allegations he orchestrated a romance scam that defrauded elderly Americans of over $8m (£5.9m).
Prosecutors said he used AI tools to create fake online identities, targeting victims through social media and dating sites, earning their trust then extorting their money.
Kumi faces charges in the US of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and a money laundering conspiracy and faces up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.
The 31-year-old was arrested in Ghana following a joint operation between the two countries and the US will now seek to extradite him.
He has not yet commented on the allegations.
Kumi, who is also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng, flaunted luxury items online to his more than 100,000 Instagram followers, which raised suspicions about the sources of his income.
According to prosecutors, the perpetrators built trust through frequent, intimate conversations by phone, email, and messaging platforms with victims, ultimately requesting money or valuables under false pretenses, such as urgent medical needs or investment opportunities. The stolen funds were allegedly redirected to co-conspirators.
This case is being prosecuted under the US Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution law. US authorities have intensified their efforts to combat fraud schemes targeting the elderly, particularly networks operating from Ghana and other West African countries.
In a similar vein, earlier this year, another alleged Ghanaian fraudster was extradited to the US for operating romance scams. Additionally, a Nigerian ringleader was sentenced to 20 years in prison for laundering over $2m.
Additional reporting by Natasha Booty
