A 31-year-old Ghanaian (Abu Trica) has been indicted in the United States for allegedly playing a key role in a sprawling romance-fraud network that scammed elderly Americans out of more than $8 million, according to U.S. federal authorities.
The suspect, Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng and widely known on social media as Abu Trica, was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025 after a joint operation involving U.S. and Ghanaian law enforcement agencies. Abu Trica hails from Swedru in the Central Region.
A recently unsealed indictment from a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio, outlines how the network used Artificial Intelligence tools to create believable fake identities, build long-distance romantic relationships and emotionally manipulate victims, mostly elderly Americans, into sending money and valuables.
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Investigators say the scammers operated largely on social media and online dating platforms, presenting themselves as real people with fabricated stories. Through frequent calls, emails and intimate conversations, they allegedly built trust before making financial requests, often framed as medical emergencies, travel issues or investment opportunities.
According to U.S. prosecutors, once victims transferred funds, Abu Trica coordinated with a network of associates to move the money across Ohio and other U.S. states before routing it to partners in Ghana and beyond.
Abu Trica has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors note that sentencing will depend on multiple factors, including his role in the scheme and any prior record.
U.S. authorities emphasized that an indictment is not a conviction, and Abu Trica is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledged support from several Ghanaian institutions, including the Attorney General’s Office, EOCO, Ghana Police Service, Cyber Security Authority, NACOC, National Intelligence Bureau, and U.S. agencies operating in Accra.
Officials say the prosecution forms part of the U.S. Elder Justice Initiative, a program targeting financial crimes and scams that prey on senior citizens.