Accra, Dec. 12, GNA – The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), working with a multi‑agency law enforcement task force, has arrested Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng and popularly called “Abu Trica.”
The suspect, described as “one of Ghana’s most notorious cybercriminals,” was arrested on December 11, 2025, following a coordinated operation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), INTERPOL, the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the Office of the Attorney‑General.
A statement issued by EOCO said the arrest followed several months of intelligence gathering and joint investigations into a transnational cybercrime network operating since 2023.
Preliminary investigations indicated that “Abu Trica” was part of a sophisticated syndicate that defrauded elderly victims in the United States through romance scams.
The network reportedly used Artificial Intelligence tools to create fake identities, establish online relationships with victims, and exploit their emotional vulnerability for financial gain.
The perpetrators allegedly targeted mostly elderly individuals through social media and online dating platforms, using fabricated profiles to win their trust and solicit money and valuables under false pretences.
The scheme is estimated to have caused financial losses exceeding eight million dollars.
EOCO said the suspect would be extradited to the United States to face charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy and a forfeiture specification.
He faces a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years if convicted.
EOCO commended its local and international partner agencies for their cooperation in the successful execution of the operation.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey