The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has denied reports suggesting that it contacted Frederick Kumi, also known as Abu Trica, weeks before his arrest.

In a press statement dated December 16, 2025, EOCO clarified that any claims implying prior contact with Abu Trica are false.

“… The attention of the Office has been drawn to speculations in sections of the media regarding an alleged contact of 'Abu Trica' by EOCO weeks before the arrest.

“EOCO wishes to inform its stakeholders and the General public that the Office did not on any occasion contact 'Abu Trica' before the arrest as is being speculated,” the statement emphasised.

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EOCO, while setting the record straight, reiterated its commitment to combating economic and organised crime in the country.

The agency further encouraged the public to continue reporting any such criminal activities.

“The Office remains committed to fighting economic and organised crime and urges the public to continue to report these crimes,” it added.

Abu Trica was arrested after United States authorities indicted him for his alleged role in defrauding elderly victims of over $8 million.

According to unsealed documents from the US Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Ohio, Abu Trica is accused of being part of a criminal network that targeted senior citizens through online romance scams across the United States since 2023.

He was, however, arrested by authorities in Ghana on Thursday, December 11, 2025.

Prosecutors allege that Abu Trica and his co-conspirators used Artificial Intelligence software to assume false identities and cultivate intimate online relationships with victims.

They then gained the trust of elderly individuals through social media and dating platforms before soliciting money or valuables under false pretenses, including urgent medical expenses, travel costs, and investment opportunities.

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

The indictment further claims that once funds were transferred, Abu Trica helped distribute the money from Ohio to co-conspirators in Ghana and other locations.

He faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

Read EOCO's statement below:



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