In a breakthrough against transnational cybercrime, Ghanaian authorities, in collaboration with the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), have arrested Frederick Kumi, a 31-year-old from Swedru popularly known as “Abu Trica” on social media.
The arrest took place on December 11, 2025, following months of intelligence gathering and a coordinated multi-agency operation.
Abu Trica, whose real name is Frederick Kumi (also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng), gained fame on platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok for flaunting a lavish lifestyle, including luxury cars, bundles of cash, and high-end properties.
He was often described as a successful young businessman, but authorities allege his wealth stemmed from involvement in a sophisticated romance scam network that defrauded elderly Americans of over $8 million since 2023.
According to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which issued a press release on December 12, the criminal syndicate used artificial intelligence tools to create fake online profiles.
Scammers built emotional relationships with victims—primarily seniors—through social media and dating sites, pretending to be romantic partners.
Once trust was established, they fabricated emergencies (such as medical bills or investment opportunities) to extract money and valuables.
The operation involved Ghana’s EOCO, Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Interpol, National Investigations Bureau (NIB), Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Ghana Police Service, and the Attorney General’s Office, alongside the FBI’s Cleveland Division.
US prosecutors unsealed an indictment charging Kumi with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and forfeiture specifications. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
Kumi is expected to be extradited to the United States to face trial in the Northern District of Ohio. The case falls under the US Elder Justice Initiative, which targets financial exploitation of seniors.
EOCO described the arrest as a significant victory in combating cyber-enabled fraud and praised the international cooperation.
“Abu Trica was one of Ghana’s most notorious scammers,” the agency stated, highlighting the use of AI in modern scams.
This arrest adds to a growing list of high-profile Ghanaian figures implicated in international romance scams, underscoring strengthened ties between Ghanaian and US law enforcement in tackling cross-border crime.
