Who Is Abu Trica?
Abu Trica is a 31-year-old Ghanaian from Swedru who built a large following on Snapchat and other social platforms.
He became known for flaunting stacks of cash, luxury cars, houses, and a lavish lifestyle that many assumed came from legitimate business success.
However, U.S. prosecutors allege that much of that wealth was connected to a sophisticated romance scam — one that defrauded elderly people in the United States out of millions of dollars.
Why Is the FBI Involved?
The FBI’s Cleveland Division is leading the case because:
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The victims were U.S. citizens, mostly elderly individuals.
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Transfers of stolen funds occurred through U.S. financial systems, including banks in Ohio and other states.
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The case involves federal crimes such as wire fraud and money laundering, which fall under U.S. jurisdiction.
Because the victims and much of the financial activity were in the United States, the FBI — working with prosecutors — gained authority to investigate and press charges.
What Is He Accused Of?
According to the unsealed U.S. indictment, Abu Trica is accused of participating in a criminal network that operated since 2023.
Prosecutors say the group used advanced techniques — including artificial intelligence — to create fake online identities and lure victims into long-distance romantic relationships on social media and dating platforms.
Here’s how the alleged scheme worked:
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Fake Identities Created with AI
The group reportedly used AI tools to generate convincing profile pictures and personas. -
Emotional Manipulation of Victims
Scammers built trust with victims — often calling, messaging, and emailing them over extended periods — leading victims to believe they were in real, intimate relationships. -
Requests for Money Under False Pretenses
Once trust was established, victims were pressured into sending money for supposed:-
Medical emergencies
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Travel costs
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Business opportunities
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Financial investments
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Money Laundering and Transfer
Funds were reportedly routed through U.S. co-conspirators, making detection harder, before being sent to Ghana and other destinations.
Authorities say the total amount stolen from victims exceeded $8 million.
What Charges Does He Face?
Abu Trica has been charged in the United States with:
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison under U.S. federal law — although the exact sentence would depend on various factors, such as his role and any prior criminal history.
How Was He Arrested?
Abu Trica was arrested in Ghana following a coordinated operation involving:
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The FBI
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Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO)
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Other U.S. and Ghanaian agencies
This cooperation highlights growing international efforts to tackle cross-border cybercrime.
What Happens Next?
After the arrest:
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He may be extradited to the United States to stand trial — pending legal processes in Ghana.
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In the U.S. legal system, an indictment is a charge, not proof of guilt. Kumi is entitled to a fair trial where the government must prove every allegation beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Abu Trica case is significant for several reasons:
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It exposes how sophisticated online scams — especially those involving AI and social media — can exploit vulnerable populations like the elderly.
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It demonstrates the global nature of modern financial crimes and the necessity of international cooperation in law enforcement.
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It underscores efforts like the U.S. Elder Justice Initiative, aimed at combating fraud against older Americans.
