Ghanaian social media influencer Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, has denied all charges against him after appearing before a United States court. The court has set September 8, 2026, for the start of his trial.
Kumi entered a plea of not guilty, maintaining that he is innocent of the allegations brought against him. Meanwhile, his legal team is expected to prepare for the trial. Both the prosecution and defence will gather evidence and present their respective arguments.
The Ghanaian national was extradited to the United States to face trial over allegations that he was involved in a romance scam scheme that prosecutors say defrauded older Americans of more than $8 million.
He has rejected the accusations and denied any involvement in the alleged offences.
According to US prosecutors, Abu Trica and others used artificial intelligence tools to create fake online identities. They allegedly targeted victims through social media platforms and dating websites. Additionally, the prosecution alleges that the group built relationships with victims, gained their trust, and later obtained money through false claims.
Prosecutors claim the alleged requests for funds were linked to fabricated situations, including urgent medical needs, travel expenses, and investment opportunities.
Abu Trica was flown to the United States on Thursday, July 9, 23026, to face the charges. If convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is being heard at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, Eastern Division. Judge John R. Adams has scheduled the jury trial for September 8, 2026. Additionally, a pre-trial conference has also been set for August 25, 2026.
Court documents indicate that both sides may pursue plea negotiations if they choose, but any agreement must be reached before the scheduled pre-trial date. The court stated that plea agreements would not be accepted after that point.
“Accordingly, the court will not accept plea agreements after the date of the pre-trial,” it said.
Abu Trica’s online lifestyle
Before his arrest, Abu Trica was known for sharing content about his lifestyle with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram. His posts frequently featured luxury items, which prosecutors say attracted attention and raised questions about his sources of income.
US authorities allege that social media platforms and online dating sites were used to identify and communicate with potential victims. The alleged scheme involved prolonged personal conversations designed to establish trust before financial requests were made.
Investigators claim that money and valuables obtained from victims were transferred through third parties acting as intermediaries. Afterward, the assets were distributed among alleged associates in the United States and Ghana.
Kumi, who is from Swedru in southern Ghana, was arrested last year in a joint operation involving Ghanaian and US authorities. The arrest was part of broader efforts by law enforcement agencies to investigate international networks accused of carrying out online fraud schemes targeting vulnerable individuals.
There is also a disagreement over Kumi’s age. His lawyer has stated that he is 28 years old, while US prosecutors have identified him as 31.
US authorities have recently increased efforts to combat fraud networks operating across the United States and West Africa, particularly those accused of using digital platforms to deceive and financially exploit older victims.
Kumi remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
