‘You know your money isn’t clean, but you still flaunt it’

Following news that a Ghanaian man popularly known on Snapchat as “Abu Trica” has been indicted in the United States for allegedly running an $8 million romance fraud scheme, Ghanaians have flooded social media with reactions, mostly condemning his flashy online lifestyle and the culture of flaunting questionable wealth.

Abu Trica, officially identified as Frederick Kumi, is famous on Snapchat for showing off bundles of cash, luxury cars, and lavish houses.

Many netizens said the development was no surprise, arguing that anyone displaying such extravagant wealth without a clear source is bound to draw suspicion.

One user questioned why people involved in alleged fraud feel the urge to flaunt their lifestyle.

Abu Trica indicted in US for $8m romance fraud, arrested by authorities in Ghana

“They will commit fraud then start flaunting the ill-gotten wealth online, for what? The need to show off even though they are doing something wrong never ceases to amaze me,” one user wrote.

Another comment pointed out that those engaging in such schemes seemed to have learned nothing from high-profile cases like Hushpuppi.

“Small small, dem go barb all of them 1 by 1. You know the source of your money but you will never keep quiet. What happened to Hushpuppi nu, y’all never learn sense,” another commented.

Some reactions touched on morality, including a user who quoted scripture:

“Proverbs 20:17 — Bread gained by deceit tastes good to a man, but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel.”

Others lamented how this culture pressures young people into thinking legitimate work cannot sustain them.

“At first wona parents dey build houses with pension money but now because of pressure from people like these, we see 9-5 jobs like ebe bad thing… make nobody pressure you, not all that glitters be gold.”

Meanwhile, details from a recently unsealed indictment show that a federal grand jury charged the 31-year-old from Swedru with two counts of fraud.

US authorities say Abu Trica was part of a network that used AI-generated identities to lure elderly Americans into online relationships beginning in 2023.

The scammers allegedly gained victims’ trust through frequent messages and calls before requesting money for fabricated emergencies, investments, or travel.

The funds were then moved through co-conspirators in the US and eventually sent to Ghana and other destinations.

Abu Trica has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification, and faces up to 20 years in prison.

Also, watch below Amnesty International’s ‘Protect the Protest’ documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025

AK/AM