United States prosecutors have accused Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, of using artificial intelligence and fake online identities to run an alleged romance scam that defrauded more than 80 elderly Americans of over $8 million.
The allegations were outlined in a statement issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio after Kumi was extradited from Ghana to face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to court documents, prosecutors allege that Kumi and his co-accused, Daniel Yussif, led a criminal network that operated between April 2023 and November 2025, targeting elderly victims across the United States.
Investigators claim the group searched for victims on dating websites and social media platforms, focusing mainly on elderly widows and divorced individuals.
They allegedly created fake female profiles, built emotional relationships with victims and later persuaded them to send money under false pretences.
The U.S. Department of Justice further alleged that Kumi used artificial intelligence-powered video technology to make the fake identities appear more convincing.
“Kumi employed advanced techniques including AI-driven video platforms to engage with the victims under fictitious female personas,” the Department of Justice stated.
Prosecutors also allege that other members of the group communicated with victims through encrypted messaging apps and phone calls to maintain the deception.
According to investigators, victims believed they were in genuine romantic relationships before they were persuaded to send money to help resolve fabricated issues involving gold or diamond inheritances.
Authorities say the funds were paid into bank accounts controlled by members of the alleged network before being transferred to accomplices in Ghana and other countries.
The Justice Department further claims that the group laundered millions of dollars through shell companies, bank accounts and money mules based in Ghana and within the Ghanaian immigrant community in the United States.
Authorities allege that the operation generated more than $8 million from over 80 victims.
They also claim Kumi used proceeds from the alleged fraud to purchase luxury assets, including a mansion in Ghana, a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes-Benz and a BMW.
Law enforcement agencies have since seized the assets.
Kumi was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025, and extradited to the United States on July 9, 2026.
He now faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Prosecutors are also seeking the forfeiture of assets they believe were purchased with money from the alleged scheme.
If convicted, Kumi could face up to 20 years in prison on each charge.
The court will determine any sentence after considering factors such as his criminal history, his alleged role in the case and other relevant sentencing guidelines.
The allegations remain unproven, and Kumi is presumed innocent unless a court finds him guilty.
