US accuses Abu Trica of using AI in $8m romance scam targeting elderly Americans
United States prosecutors have accused Frederick Kumi, also known as Abu Trica, of using artificial intelligence-powered technology and fake online identities to run a romance scam that allegedly defrauded more than 80 elderly Americans of over $8 million.
The allegations were outlined in a statement from 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 filings, Kumi and his co-accused, Daniel Yussif, are alleged to have led a criminal operation that targeted elderly victims across the United States between April 2023 and November 2025.
Prosecutors claim the group identified potential victims through online dating platforms and social media, focusing mainly on widows and divorced elderly individuals. Using fabricated female identities, they allegedly built trust with victims before persuading them to send money under false pretences.
The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that Kumi used AI-powered video technology to interact with victims while posing as fictional women. Other members of the network are said to have maintained the false identities through encrypted messaging apps and phone calls.
Investigators say victims believed they were involved in genuine romantic relationships and were convinced to send money to help with fabricated claims involving gold or 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.
Prosecutors further contend that the operation relied on money mules in Ghana and members of the Ghanaian immigrant community in the United States to launder millions of dollars through shell companies and bank accounts.
According to the Department of Justice, the alleged scheme generated more than $8 million from over 80 elderly victims.
Investigators also allege that Kumi used proceeds from the suspected fraud to purchase luxury assets, including a mansion in Ghana, a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes-Benz and a BMW. Law enforcement authorities have since seized the assets.
Kumi was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025, before being extradited to the United States on July 9, 2026.
He faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, while prosecutors are seeking the forfeiture of assets they claim were purchased with proceeds from the alleged fraud.
If found guilty, Kumi could face up to 20 years in prison on each charge. Any sentence would be determined by the court after considering factors such as his criminal history, if any, his alleged role in the offences and other sentencing considerations.
The allegations remain before the court, and Kumi is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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