- Ghanaian influencer Frederick Kumi, also known as Abu Trica, has been arrested in Accra over an alleged $8 million romance-fraud scheme targeting elderly Americans.
- US prosecutors accuse him of using AI-generated fake identities to scam victims online, laundering the proceeds through networks in Ghana and the US. He faces charges that could carry up to 20 years in prison.
A Ghanaian social media influencer, Frederick Kumi, also known as Abu Trica, has been arrested in Accra. He is accused of leading a major romance-fraud scheme that stole over $8 million from elderly Americans.
Kumi, 31, was known online for showing off cash, luxury cars, and mansions. His arrest was a joint effort by Ghanaian security agencies and US federal authorities.
US prosecutors have charged him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money-laundering. Each charge carries a potential prison term of up to 20 years.
Investigators claim Kumi used AI tools to create fake identities and detailed backstories. He used these fake profiles to target vulnerable seniors on dating and social media sites.
Once victims trusted him, they were pressured to send money for fake emergencies like medical bills or travel. The money was then routed through a network of accomplices in Ghana and the US. Kumi’s public display of unexplained wealth eventually led financial-crime investigators to look closely at his activities.
The case falls under the U.S. Elder Abuse Prevention Act, highlighting the US effort to stop fraud networks operating in West Africa.
In other news…. A Nigerian man, Jerry Smart Ekele, has publicly expressed concern that interior designer Sandra Areh might remain unmarried amid ongoing speculation surrounding her relationship with popular clergyman, Apostle Joshua Selman.
The controversy intensified after Apostle Selman reportedly addressed Sandra Areh as “my love” at his birthday celebration on December 9, 2025. While many social media users interpreted this as confirmation of a romantic link, both Selman and Areh have since publicly clarified that their relationship is strictly professional and based on mutual respect within their respective ministries.
Despite the clarification, the public perception persists, leading to Jerry Smart Ekele’s viral Facebook post. He voiced worry that the public confusion is negatively impacting Areh’s dating prospects, stating:
“As it stands, other men who ought to be seeing her as a potential suitor, are already seeing her as the Apostle’s wife. In fact, many people online think they’re already married. This confusion isn’t sitting well with me. We can’t make a sacrificial lamb out of this graceful woman.”
The man urged Apostle Selman to clarify his marital status decisively, emphasizing that the lingering uncertainty is delaying Ms. Areh’s opportunity to find another potential partner, as suitors view her as unavailable due to the strong rumors.
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