Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, has been accused by United States prosecutors of using artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technology and fake online identities to orchestrate a romance scam that allegedly 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 the United States to face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to court documents, Kumi and his alleged accomplice, Daniel Yussif, were members of a criminal network that allegedly operated between April 2023 and November 2025, targeting elderly victims across the United States.

Prosecutors claim the group identified potential victims through online dating platforms and social media, focusing primarily on elderly widows and divorcees. They allegedly created fake female profiles and cultivated online romantic relationships with victims before convincing them to send money under false pretences.

The U.S. Department of Justice further alleges that Kumi used advanced AI-driven video technology to communicate with victims while posing as fictitious women, making the fraudulent identities appear more convincing.

Investigators also claim other members of the network relied on encrypted messaging applications and phone calls to maintain the fake personas and deepen victims’ trust.

According to prosecutors, victims were led to believe they were in genuine romantic relationships before being persuaded to transfer money based on fabricated stories involving gold and diamond inheritances.

Authorities allege the funds were deposited into bank accounts controlled by members of the network before being distributed to accomplices in Ghana and other countries.

The U.S. government further claims the syndicate used money mules in Ghana and members of the Ghanaian immigrant community in the United States to launder millions of dollars through shell companies and multiple bank accounts.

Prosecutors say the alleged operation generated more than $8 million from over 80 elderly victims.

Kumi is also accused of using 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. U.S. authorities say the assets have since been seized.

He was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025, and extradited to the United States on July 9, 2026, where he is facing charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Prosecutors are also seeking the forfeiture of assets they allege were acquired with proceeds from the scheme.

If convicted, Kumi could face a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment on each count. However, any sentence will be determined by the court after considering several factors, including his alleged role in the offences and any prior criminal history.

Kumi is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.