Ghana extradites influencer to US over $8M romance fraud

A Ghanaian social media influencer has been extradited to the United States to face charges that he orchestrated a multi-million dollar romance fraud scheme targeting elderly Americans. Frederick Kumi, widely known online as Abu Trica, was flown from Ghana to the U.S. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, following months of legal challenges to his transfer.

U.S. prosecutors allege Kumi was a key figure in a transnational criminal network that used artificial intelligence to create convincing fake identities on social media and dating platforms. The scheme, which allegedly operated from 2023, defrauded victims of more than $8 million. Authorities say conspirators spent weeks or months building emotional relationships with targets before fabricating emergencies, medical bills, or investment opportunities to solicit funds. The money was then allegedly funneled through multiple bank accounts and distributed to accomplices in both Ghana and the United States.

Kumi, who built a following of over 100,000 on Instagram by flaunting luxury cars, cash, and a lavish lifestyle, was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025, in a joint operation involving Ghanaian authorities and the U.S. Federal Bureau...