BREAKING: High Court Clears Path for Abu Trica’s Extradition to the United States

An Accra High Court has ruled in favour of extraditing Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica, to the United States after dismissing his application to block the transfer.

According to reports, the court’s decision effectively clears the way for his extradition following ongoing legal proceedings linked to criminal charges filed in the US.

His lawyer, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, confirmed the development, stating that he was informed while out of the country that the court had upheld the extradition request. He noted that the judge granted approval for the process to proceed.

Barker-Vormawor added that the legal team intends to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court in an attempt to challenge the ruling and halt the extradition.

He also shared on social media that the case had been fast-tracked, suggesting further legal action would follow.

Abu Trica had earlier filed an application through his lawyers seeking to stop his extradition to the United States. His legal team also previously challenged a ruling from the Gbese District Court, which had approved the extradition request.

Case background

US authorities have indicted Abu Trica over allegations of involvement in a romance fraud scheme that reportedly defrauded elderly victims of more than $8 million.

Unsealed documents from the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio allege that he was part of a criminal network targeting senior citizens through online romance scams since 2023.

Prosecutors claim the group used artificial intelligence tools to create fake identities, build online relationships, and manipulate victims into sending money for fabricated emergencies such as medical bills, travel expenses, and investment opportunities.

Investigators further allege that once funds were received, Abu Trica helped transfer and distribute the money to associates in Ghana and other locations.

He faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence of up to 20 years.