Twin brothers from Ghana have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in the United States after being accused of participating in a romance fraud scheme that cost victims more than US$9 million.
The brothers, identified as 22-year-old Jamal Abubakari, popularly known as Arrangement, and Kamal Abubakari, also known as Lancaster, entered their guilty pleas on October 13, 2026, before the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio.
Their co-conspirator, 53-year-old Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie, also known as Amanda Joy Glum or Amanda Joy Kessei Bierman, of Kula, Hawaii, also pleaded guilty on October 20, 2026.
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As part of their plea agreements, the three defendants have agreed to forfeit luxury jewellery and other valuables seized by investigators during their arrests.
The items include high-end watches, rings, chains, medallions, earrings and a French luxury handbag.
How the alleged romance fraud scheme operated
According to court documents, the defendants allegedly operated the scheme between approximately July 2024 and April 2026, targeting older Americans through dating websites and social media platforms.
Investigators say the defendants used fake identities and online personas to establish close relationships with their victims, often presenting themselves as potential romantic partners.
After gaining the victims’ trust, the alleged fraudsters reportedly used fabricated stories to persuade them to send money.
The victims subsequently transferred funds through wire transfers to accounts controlled by members of the conspiracy.
Parts of the money were then allegedly passed on to co-conspirators in Ghana and other locations.
The scheme reportedly resulted in losses exceeding US$9 million, highlighting the significant financial consequences of online romance scams.
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