Abu Trica is a popular socialite and businessman
Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, has been re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) after he and his co-accused were discharged by the Gbese District Court.
This follows an earlier disclosure on Monday, January 26, 2026, by Abu Trica’s legal counsel, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who stated that NACOC had attempted to rearrest his client in the courtroom, reportedly displeasing the presiding judge.
Abu Trica makes second appearance in court over alleged $8 million scam
The accused were discharged after the state withdrew the charges against them.
Confirming Abu Trica’s rearrest to the media, a member of the legal team said he was taken to the NACOC headquarters.
“They’ve been taken back to the Narcotics Headquarters. I’m yet to know why they are there, but I believe it’s for administrative purposes,” he said.
The trial against Abu Trica and his co-accused was intended to determine whether they should be extradited to the United States to face trial.
Abu Trica was first arrested by Ghanaian security authorities on Thursday, December 11, 2025, following an indictment by US authorities over his alleged involvement in a large-scale online romance scam estimated at over $8 million.
Unsealed documents from the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio allege that Abu Trica was part of a criminal network that targeted elderly victims across the United States from 2023.
According to prosecutors, the group used artificial intelligence software to create fake identities and build intimate online relationships with senior citizens through social media and dating platforms. Victims were then manipulated into sending money and valuables under false pretences, including claims of medical emergencies, travel expenses, and investment opportunities.
Court discharges Abu Trica, two others in alleged $8m romance scam case
The indictment further alleges that Abu Trica helped distribute funds transferred from Ohio to conspirators in Ghana and other locations. He was facing charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification.
MAG/MA
