Abu Trica Allegedly Used AI, Fake Identities to Defraud Elderly Americans — US Prosecutors
Frederick Kumi allegedly used AI-powered technology and fake identities to target victims in a romance fraud scheme, prosecutors claim.
- US prosecutors accuse Abu Trica of an alleged $8m romance scam targeting over 80 elderly Americans
- Authorities allege AI technology and fake identities were used to deceive victims
- Kumi faces wire fraud and money laundering charges after extradition to the US
United States prosecutors have accused Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, of allegedly using artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technology and fake online identities to operate a romance scam that defrauded more than 80 elderly Americans of over $8 million.
The allegations were contained in a statement issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio following Kumi’s extradition from Ghana to the United States to face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to court documents, Kumi and his alleged accomplice, Daniel Yussif, were part of a criminal network that targeted elderly victims across the United States between April 2023 and November 2025.
Prosecutors allege that the group identified victims through online dating platforms and social media, particularly targeting elderly widows and divorcees. They are accused of creating fake female profiles and using those identities to build romantic relationships with victims before convincing them to send money under false pretences.
The U.S. Department of Justice said Kumi allegedly used advanced methods, including AI-powered video platforms, to communicate with victims while pretending to be fictitious women.
Other members of the alleged network are said to have used encrypted messaging platforms and phone calls to maintain the fake identities and strengthen the deception.
Investigators claim that victims were persuaded to send money after being presented with fabricated stories involving gold and diamond inheritances.
The funds were allegedly transferred into bank accounts controlled by members of the group and later distributed to accomplices in Ghana and other countries.
U.S. authorities further allege that the network used money mules in Ghana and members of the Ghanaian immigrant community in the United States to launder millions of dollars through shell businesses and bank accounts.
According to prosecutors, the alleged operation generated more than $8 million from over 80 elderly victims.
Kumi is also accused of using proceeds from the alleged scheme to acquire luxury assets, including a mansion in Ghana, a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes-Benz and a BMW. Authorities say the assets have since been seized.
He was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025, and extradited to the United States on July 9, 2026.
Kumi faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prosecutors are also seeking the forfeiture of assets they allege were purchased with proceeds from the scheme.
If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison on each count. However, any sentence will be determined by the court after considering relevant factors, including his alleged role in the offences.
Kumi remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
