| Image : Facebook |
A Ghanaian social media influencer, Frederick Kumi, popularly known online as Abu Trica, has been arrested in Accra over his alleged involvement in a large-scale romance fraud scheme that reportedly defrauded elderly Americans of more than $8 million.
Kumi, aged 31, built a flashy online persona centered around luxury cars, stacks of cash, and high-end mansions. However, behind the scenes, investigators say the influencer was allegedly coordinating a sophisticated online scam that preyed on vulnerable senior citizens in the United States.
According to authorities, Kumi’s arrest followed a joint investigation involving Ghanaian security agencies and U.S. federal law enforcement, marking another major crackdown on cross-border cybercrime networks operating from West Africa.
U.S. prosecutors have since charged Kumi with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, offenses that each carry a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Investigators allege that Kumi made extensive use of artificial intelligence tools to create convincing fake identities, complete with fabricated life stories and photos. These digital personas were reportedly deployed on dating platforms and social media sites to emotionally manipulate elderly victims seeking companionship.
Once trust was established, victims were allegedly persuaded to send money under false pretenses, including fabricated medical emergencies, travel expenses, or sudden financial crises.
Authorities say the funds were then funneled through a complex network of accomplices operating in both Ghana and the United States, making the scheme difficult to trace initially.
Ironically, officials say Kumi’s extravagant public lifestyle eventually drew attention to his activities. His unexplained wealth raised red flags among financial-crime investigators, ultimately leading to deeper scrutiny and his eventual arrest.
The case is being prosecuted under the U.S. Elder Abuse Prevention Act, underscoring America’s intensified efforts to combat romance scams and protect senior citizens from online exploitation.
It also highlights growing collaboration between U.S. and African authorities to dismantle international fraud syndicates.
As investigations continue, law enforcement officials have warned social media users to remain cautious of online relationships involving sudden financial requests, especially those built entirely on digital interactions.
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#CyberCrime
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#WireFraud
#MoneyLaundering
#SocialMediaInfluencer
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