EXCLUSIVE: Ghanaian Influencer Extradited to US Over $8 Million Romance Scam Targeting Elderly Americans

A Ghanaian social media influencer, Frederick Kumi, also known as Abu Trica, has been extradited to the United States to face charges over a sophisticated romance scam that defrauded more than 80 elderly victims of over $8 million .

Kumi, 31, of Swedru, Ghana, was arrested in a joint operation by the FBI and Ghanaian security agencies on December 11, 2025, and extradited on July 9, 2026.

He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering .

According to court documents, Kumi and his co-defendant, Daniel Yussif, led a criminal network that used online dating sites and social media to target victims, who were often widows or divorcees .

Kumi employed advanced techniques, including AI-driven video platforms, to engage with victims under fictitious female personas.

After gaining their trust through frequent, intimate conversations, the scammers requested money under false pretenses, such as urgent medical needs, travel expenses, or investment opportunities .

Kumi allegedly used his ill-gotten gains to acquire luxury vehicles and other items of value.

Assets seized by international law enforcement partners included a mansion in Ghana, a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes Benz, and a BMW .

The case is being prosecuted under the US Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution law and highlights the growing crackdown on cross-border fraud networks targeting vulnerable populations . A jury trial has been scheduled for September 8, 2026.