Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed the arrest of one of the country’s most notorious cyber-fraud suspects, Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng and popularly referred to as Abu Trica, for his alleged role in a sophisticated $8 million romance-scam network targeting elderly victims in the United States.
In a statement issued on Friday, December 12, 2025, EOCO disclosed that the arrest was carried out on Thursday, December 11, following a months-long international investigation involving the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), INTERPOL, the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), and Ghana’s Office of the Attorney General.
AI-Powered Romance Scam Network
According to EOCO, the criminal syndicate employed advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) software to create and manage fake online identities. These identities were used to establish emotional and romantic relationships with unsuspecting victims, many of them elderly, before manipulating them into transferring money and valuables under false pretences.
Investigators say the network exploited trust and emotional vulnerability, making the scheme particularly devastating for victims and difficult to detect in its early stages.
Extradition to the United States Looms
EOCO revealed that Abu Trica is expected to be extradited to the United States, where he will face multiple federal charges, including:
- Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
- Money-laundering conspiracy
- Forfeiture specifications linked to proceeds of crime
If convicted, the suspect could face up to 20 years in prison under U.S. federal law.
Major Breakthrough Against Cross-Border Cybercrime
EOCO praised its local and international partners for their collaboration, describing the arrest as a significant breakthrough in the global fight against cross-border cyber-crime.
“This operation demonstrates the strength of international cooperation in tackling increasingly sophisticated cyber-enabled financial crimes,” the agency said, adding that investigations into other members of the syndicate are ongoing.
The arrest sends a strong signal to cybercriminals exploiting emerging technologies for fraud and reinforces Ghana’s commitment to working with global partners to combat cyber-crime and protect vulnerable populations worldwide.
