The Cyber Security Authority (CSA), working in collaboration with three national security agencies, has arrested a 31-year-old Ghanaian man identified as Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng and Abu Trica, over his alleged role in an international romance-fraud scheme that defrauded victims of more than US$8 million.
The joint operation, carried out on December 11, 2025, involved the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. It was led by the CSA’s Acting Director-General, Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti.
In a statement, Mr. Agbeti described the arrests as a significant breakthrough in dismantling a criminal network that had preyed on vulnerable elderly victims across the United States since 2023.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to collaborating with national and international partners to combat cyber-enabled crimes,” he said.
“We will continue to pursue individuals who exploit digital platforms to harm unsuspecting victims,” he added.
According to an unsealed indictment by a U.S. federal grand jury, Kumi and his accomplices allegedly employed sophisticated artificial intelligence tools to create false identities, initiate online relationships, and manipulate victims into sending money and valuables. The scammers reportedly operated mainly on social media and dating platforms.
The indictment further alleges that once funds were transferred, Kumi coordinated with a wider network of co-conspirators to channel the proceeds from the United States to contacts in Ghana and other jurisdictions. U.S. prosecutors have charged him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
Mr. Agbeti urged the public to remain vigilant online and report suspicious digital activity.
“Cybercrime continues to evolve, and so must our collective response. We encourage citizens to verify online engagements, especially those involving financial requests,” he shared.
The CSA said investigations are ongoing as authorities work closely with international partners to unravel the full extent of the network’s operations.
