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The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed the arrest of one of Ghana’s most notorious suspected cyber-fraudsters, Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica. He is alleged to be a central figure in a sophisticated $8 million romance-scam network that targeted elderly victims across the United States.
According to EOCO, the arrest took place on Thursday, December 11, following months of intelligence-led investigations conducted in collaboration with multiple international and local partners, including the FBI, INTERPOL, the National Intelligence Bureau, the Narcotics Control Commission, the Cyber Security Authority, and the Office of the Attorney General.
Investigators revealed that the syndicate used advanced AI-generated identities to pose as romantic partners online. They engaged victims in lengthy emotional conversations before manipulating them into sending money and valuable items under false pretences such as medical emergencies, travel needs, or fabricated investment opportunities.
EOCO announced that Abu Trica will be extradited to the United States to face charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
The agency described the arrest as a major breakthrough in Ghana’s fight against transnational cybercrime and commended its partner institutions for their cooperation.
