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Popular Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica (also called Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng), has been arrested in Ghana after being indicted in the United States for allegedly leading a romance scam operation that defrauded elderly Americans of over $8 million.
The 31-year-old, who comes from Agona Swedru in the Central Region, was arrested on Wednesday, December 11, 2025, after a two-count indictment was unsealed by a federal grand jury in the Northern District of Ohio.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Kumi and his criminal network allegedly used artificial intelligence toolsto create fake identities and build online romantic relationships with vulnerable elderly victims across the United States beginning in 2023.
The scammers reportedly targeted victims on social media and online dating platforms, communicating frequently through phone calls, emails, and messaging apps to build emotional trust.
Once the victims were convinced, the fraudsters invented stories about urgent medical needs, unexpected travel expenses, or profitable investment deals to pressure them into sending large sums of money and valuables.
Prosecutors say that after the funds were transferred, Kumi coordinated with accomplices in Ohio and other U.S. states to launder and redirect the money to partners in Ghana and other countries.
Kumi has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough, with investigations carried out by the FBI’s Cleveland Division.
U.S. authorities praised the support of several Ghanaian state institutions, including the Attorney General’s Office, EOCO, the Ghana Police Service, the Cyber Security Authority, NACOC, and the National Intelligence Bureau, for their cooperation in the arrest.
This indictment falls under the Elder Justice Initiative, created under the 2017 Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act, which aims to combat financial crimes targeting older adults in the United States.
