Ghanaian social media personality Frederick Kumi, widely known by his online alias Abu Trica, has been taken into custody following allegations of masterminding an elaborate romance scam that defrauded elderly American victims of more than $8 million. The sophisticated operation utilized artificial intelligence to fabricate convincing digital personas that targeted vulnerable seniors through social platforms and dating websites.
United States prosecutors detailed how Kumi and his associates built emotional connections with victims through sustained intimate communication across various digital channels before fabricating emergency scenarios to solicit funds. These fabricated crises included fabricated medical emergencies, travel expenses, and fraudulent investment opportunities. The illicit proceeds were then funneled through accomplices posing as third-party intermediaries.
The 31-year-old influencer, who also operated under the name Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng, drew suspicion through his conspicuous display of luxury vehicles, substantial cash, and premium properties to his extensive Instagram following exceeding 100,000 followers. His online ostentation eventually triggered investigations into the legitimacy of his wealth sources.
Kumi now faces serious charges in the U.S. judicial system, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. If convicted on all counts, he potentially faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. Following a coordinated international operation between Ghanaian and American authorities, his extradition to the United States is now being pursued.
This case represents part of a broader transatlantic crackdown on financial crimes targeting elderly Americans. The prosecution is proceeding under the U.S. Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act, reflecting increased focus on protecting vulnerable demographics from organized fraud networks. Recent months have seen several similar extraditions and convictions, including a Ghanaian national known as Dada Joe Remix and Nigerian national Oluwaseun Adekoya, who received a 20-year sentence for comparable money laundering activities.