United States prosecutors have accused Ghanaian national Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, of using artificial intelligence technology and fake online identities to operate a romance scam that allegedly defrauded more than 80 elderly Americans of over $8 million.
The allegations were contained in a statement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio following Kumi’s extradition from Ghana to the United States to face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to U.S. court documents, Kumi and his alleged co-conspirator Daniel Yussif operated a criminal network that targeted elderly victims across the United States between April 2023 and November 2025.
Prosecutors allege that the group identified victims through online dating platforms and social media, particularly targeting elderly widows and divorcees. They are accused of creating fake female identities to establish romantic relationships with victims before persuading them to send money based on fabricated financial emergencies.
The U.S. Department of Justice said Kumi allegedly used “advanced techniques including AI-driven video platforms” to communicate with victims while posing as fictitious women.
Other members of the alleged network reportedly used encrypted messaging platforms and telephone calls to maintain the false identities and build trust with victims.
Investigators said victims were convinced they were in genuine romantic relationships and were later persuaded to transfer funds to support false claims involving gold and diamond inheritances.
The funds were allegedly transferred into bank accounts controlled by members of the network before being moved to accomplices in Ghana and other countries.
Prosecutors further allege that the group used money mules in Ghana and members of the Ghanaian immigrant community in the United States to launder proceeds through shell businesses and bank accounts.
The U.S. authorities estimate that the alleged scheme generated more than $8 million from over 80 elderly victims.
Investigators also allege that Kumi used proceeds from the fraud to acquire luxury assets, including a mansion in Ghana, a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes-Benz and a BMW. The assets have since been seized by law enforcement authorities.
Kumi was arrested in Ghana on Dec. 11, 2025, and extradited to the United States on July 9, 2026.
He faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prosecutors are also seeking the forfeiture of assets they allege were obtained through proceeds of the scheme.
If convicted, Kumi could face up to 20 years in prison on each count. Any sentence would be determined by the court after considering factors including his alleged role in the offences, criminal history and other sentencing considerations.
The allegations have not been proven in court. Kumi remains presumed innocent unless convicted through due legal process.
