A Ghanaian Influencer known by the name Abu Trica, a 31-year-old from Swedru, has been charged for his involvement in an international scheme that scammed elderly Americans out of over $8 million using fake online romances.
Abu, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, was taken into custody on December 11, 2025. A U.S. federal indictment charges him with a scheme to execute a wire scam and money laundering. He is also known by the aliases Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng and Abu Trica.
U.S. authorities say the criminal network, active since 2023, used artificial intelligence to create false identities. Posing as romantic partners on social media and dating sites, they targeted older individuals.
The group built trust through frequent communication before fabricating crises to request money. Reasons cited included medical emergencies, travel costs, and fake investment opportunities. The total losses are estimated at $8 million.
Funds and valuables obtained were reportedly sent to accomplices in Ghana and elsewhere.
If convicted, Kumi faces a possible prison sentence of up to 20 years. U.S. officials stress that an indictment is a formal accusation, not evidence of guilt. Kumi is presumed innocent, and the government must prove its case at trial.
The investigation was led by the FBI's Cleveland office, with prosecution handled by the United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Ohio.
Multiple Ghanaian agencies provided critical assistance, including the Attorney General's Office, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), and the Ghana Police Service.
This case is Part of the U.S. Elder Justice Initiative, a program dedicated to fighting crimes against older adults. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify other suspects and recover the stolen funds.