Ghanaian social media influencer Abu Trica, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, has been flown to the United States to face trial over a romance scam that allegedly robbed elderly Americans of more than $8 million. Kumi has rejected all charges against him.
US prosecutors say he used artificial intelligence technology to build fake online profiles and targeted victims through social media and dating websites. According to authorities, he gained their confidence before convincing them to send money.
Kumi faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. He was transported to the United States on Thursday.
His attorney, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, said he rushed to court that same day to stop the extradition, only to find his client had already boarded a Delta Airlines flight. Barker-Vormawor claimed the Ghanaian government sidestepped proper legal procedures by moving ahead before the court could decide the matter.
The lawyer argued the action bypassed "judicial oversight" and said it "raises profound constitutional questions". Ghana's government has made no public statement about the extradition.
Kumi built an Instagram following exceeding 100,000 by regularly posting images of luxury vehicles and high-end goods. The posts sparked questions about where his wealth originated.
Investigators say victims were contacted through social media and dating platforms, where they were drawn into extended conversations before being asked for money or valuables. Scammers presented fabricated emergencies like medical bills, travel expenses and investment deals.
The money and goods allegedly went to co-conspirators acting as middlemen, with Kumi distributing the proceeds among associates in Ghana and the United States. Kumi, from Swedru in southern Ghana, was detained last year during a joint operation by Ghanaian and American authorities.
A disagreement exists over his age, with his lawyer stating he is 28 while US prosecutors say he is 31. The case falls under the US Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act as American authorities crack down on fraud rings spanning the US and West Africa that exploit older people.
The extradition reflects broader action against international fraud operations. Last week, Ghanaian suspect Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng, known as Dada Joe Remix, admitted guilt in America to running romance and inheritance cons targeting Americans.
In December, Nigerian fraud boss Oluwaseun Adekoya received a 20-year sentence from a US court after being found guilty of laundering more than $2 million through a national bank fraud and money-laundering scheme.
