Frederick Kumi, a 31-year-old Ghanaian from Swedru, has been arrested in Ghana over his alleged role in an $8 million romance scam targeting elderly victims in the United States.
The indictment, recently unsealed in a U.S. federal court, also lists Kumi under his known aliases, Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng and Abu Trica.
According to the indictment, Kumi was part of a criminal network that, since 2023, reportedly used artificial intelligence (AI) technology to fabricate false identities and engage victims in online romantic relationships.
The group is said to have targeted elderly individuals via social media and dating platforms, cultivating trust through frequent phone calls, emails, and messaging, before requesting money or valuables under false pretences, such as urgent medical bills, travel expenses, or investment opportunities.
Funds and valuables obtained were allegedly sent to co-conspirators in Ghana and other locations. Kumi faces charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification, carrying potential prison terms of up to 20 years if convicted.
U.S. authorities emphasised that an indictment constitutes a formal charge, not proof of guilt, and Kumi is entitled to a fair trial in which the prosecution must establish his involvement beyond reasonable doubt.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Cleveland Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough for the Northern District of Ohio.
Ghanaian agencies that assisted in the case include the Attorney General’s Office, Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Ghana Police Service, Ghana Cyber Security Authority, Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and the National Intelligence Bureau, among others.
The case forms part of the Elder Justice Initiative, established under the U.S. Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act of 2017, aimed at combating financial scams, abuse, and neglect targeting older populations.
Kumi was arrested in Ghana on 11 December 2025, and authorities continue to investigate in order to trace co-conspirators and recover defrauded funds.
