Court discharges influencer over alleged $8m online romance fraud

UPDATE: Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, has been re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) after he and his co-accused were discharged by the Gbese District Court.

This follows an earlier disclosure on Monday, January 26, 2026, by Abu Trica's legal counsel, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who stated that NACOC had attempted to rearrest his client in the courtroom, reportedly displeasing the presiding judge.

The Gbese District Court has discharged Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, and two others who were standing trial following an indictment by US authorities over an $8 million romance scam that targeted elderly Americans.

This was made known by Oliver Barker-Vormawor, legal counsel for Frederick Kumi and the two other accused persons.

BREAKING: Abu Trica re-arrested

Providing an update on Facebook on Monday, January 26, 2026, Barker-Vormawor disclosed that moments after his clients were discharged, officers of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) attempted to re-arrest them in the courtroom.

He added that the judge was offended by the alleged actions of NACOC.

“Just finished at the Gbese District Court. Abu Trica and 2 others have been discharged. NACOC just tried to rearrest them inside the court room. Judge offended,” he wrote.

The trial was to enable the court determine whether Abu Trica and his co-accused should be extradited to the United States to face trial.

Abu Trica was arrested by Ghanaian security authorities on Thursday, December 11, 2025, following an indictment by US authorities over his alleged involvement in a large-scale online romance scam estimated at more than $8 million.

Unsealed documents from the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio allege that Abu Trica was part of a criminal network that targeted elderly victims across the United States from 2023.

Prosecutors claim the group used artificial intelligence software to create fake identities and build intimate online relationships with senior citizens through social media and dating platforms.

Investigators say the victims were later manipulated into sending money and valuables under false pretences, including claims of medical emergencies, travel expenses, and investment opportunities.

The indictment further alleges that Abu Trica helped distribute funds transferred from Ohio to conspirators in Ghana and other locations.

Abu Trica Trial: State files motion to discontinue case against 2nd and 3rd accused

He is facing charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification.



MAG/AE