A Ghanaian social media influencer popularly known as Abu Trica has found himself at the center of an international fraud storm after being accused by U.S. authorities of helping to run a sophisticated romance scam that allegedly drained more than $8 million from elderly Americans.
The influencer, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, is 31 years old and reportedly operated online under several aliases, including Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng. According to U.S. prosecutors, Kumi played a key role in an organized scheme that used artificial intelligence tools to create convincing fake identities. These identities were then deployed across dating platforms and social media to target older victims, many of whom were seeking companionship.
Investigators say the operation followed a calculated pattern. Victims were approached gradually, often through friendly conversations that evolved into emotional relationships. Over time, trust was built through constant communication—phone calls, emails, and daily messaging—before requests for money began. Prosecutors allege Kumi and his associates fabricated stories involving sudden medical emergencies, travel setbacks, or lucrative business opportunities, all designed to pressure victims into sending cash, gifts, or valuables.
Once funds were sent, authorities say the money was funneled through accomplices posing as third parties, making the transactions harder to trace. The proceeds were allegedly shared among collaborators based in Ghana and the United States, forming a cross-border fraud network.
Kumi’s online persona had already raised eyebrows long before his arrest. With over 100,000 Instagram followers, he frequently posted photos flaunting luxury clothing, high-end gadgets, and an extravagant lifestyle. These displays fueled speculation about the source of his wealth, though no formal accusations were made publicly until now. Since the allegations emerged, he has remained silent and has not issued any public statement.
The influencer was arrested in Ghana following a joint operation between Ghanaian and U.S. law enforcement agencies. The United States is now seeking his extradition, citing laws aimed at protecting elderly citizens from financial exploitation. He faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, offenses that carry a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison if he is convicted.
U.S. officials say the case is part of a broader crackdown on international fraud rings, particularly those allegedly operating out of West Africa. In recent months, several high-profile cases have underscored this push. In July, another Ghanaian online figure known as Dada Joe Remix was extradited to the U.S. on similar fraud charges. Earlier this month, Nigerian fraud ringleader Oluwaseun Adekoya was sentenced to 20 years in prison for laundering over $2 million connected to nationwide online and banking scams.
American authorities have reiterated that they are intensifying efforts to dismantle networks that prey on older, often vulnerable individuals through romance scams and financial deception. The arrest of Abu Trica, they say, sends a clear message that online influence and international borders will not shield alleged perpetrators from accountability.