Abu Trica appears in court for U.S. extradition hearing

A Swedru-based businessman popularly known as Abu Trica has been brought before the Gbese District Court as proceedings commence for his possible extradition to the United States over alleged fraud-related offences.

The suspect, whose real name is Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng, appeared in court on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, following his arrest earlier this month in a joint operation involving United States and Ghanaian security agencies.

Abu Trica was picked up on Thursday, December 11, 2025, during an operation coordinated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in collaboration with Ghana’s security institutions. His arrest followed an indictment unsealed by the United States Department of Justice, which accuses him of multiple offences, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years.

The Swedru businessman is alleged to be part of an international criminal syndicate involved in romance scam schemes that targeted elderly victims across the United States. The syndicate is said to have been active since 2023, defrauding victims of more than US$8 million.

Investigators allege that members of the group used artificial intelligence (AI) software to create false online identities and develop close emotional relationships with unsuspecting victims. These interactions reportedly took place mainly on social media platforms and online dating sites. After gaining their victims’ trust, the suspects allegedly solicited money under various pretences, including medical emergencies, travel arrangements, and supposed investment opportunities.

The indictment further alleges that Abu Trica played a role in distributing proceeds from the fraudulent activities, moving funds from the United States to Ghana and other countries.

The investigation was reportedly led by the FBI Cleveland Division, with support from Ghanaian institutions including the Attorney General’s Office, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), the Ghana Police Service, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).

Also mentioned in the investigations is Abu Trica’s girlfriend and the mother of his child, Abena Oforiwaa, popularly known as Queenie, who was initially arrested to assist with inquiries. She was later released after legal intervention by lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor and his firm.

At the court session on Tuesday, Abu Trica was escorted into the courtroom in handcuffs, dressed in black, with his face covered to shield his identity from the media and members of the public. His suspected associate, Daniel Yussif, who also appeared before the court, was brought in without his face concealed.

Proceedings are expected to continue as Ghanaian authorities process the extradition request from the United States.