Summary
Federal authorities in the United States have charged two Ghanaian nationals and one U.S. woman in connection with an alleged romance fraud and money laundering scheme that targeted elderly Americans. According to investigators, the accused individuals used fake online identities on dating websites and social media platforms to build emotional relationships with victims before convincing them to send money. The case is part of a wider federal crackdown on international fraud networks linked to online romance scams.
Authorities Allege Fake Online Relationships Were Used to Obtain Money
Federal prosecutors recently unsealed an indictment in United States v. Jamal Abubakari, et al. charging Jamal Abubakari, also known as Jamal Abubakar and Arrangement, Kamal Abubakari, also known as Jamal Abubakar and Lancaster, and Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie, also known as Amanda Joy Glum and Amanda Joy Kessei Bierman. The defendants face charges related to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
According to the indictment, the alleged fraud operation took place between July 2024 and April 2026. Investigators say the defendants and their alleged co-conspirators targeted older Americans through dating websites and social media applications. Authorities claim fake identities were used to create emotional and romantic relationships with victims online.
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Officials allege that victims were manipulated through false stories and emotional conversations before being persuaded to send money through wire transfers. Prosecutors say the money was sent to financial accounts controlled by members of the conspiracy, and portions of those funds were later transferred to co-conspirators located in Ghana and other places.
The three defendants were arrested in Virginia and remained in custody pending further court proceedings when the charges were announced. Federal authorities emphasized that an indictment is only an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Key Details Investigators Highlighted
- Victims were allegedly contacted through dating websites and social media
- Fake online identities were reportedly used to gain trust
- Elderly Americans were the primary targets
- Wire transfers were allegedly used to move money
- Investigators believe funds were transferred overseas
Multiple Related Cases Connected to Ghana-Based Fraud Networks
Authorities stated that this indictment is one of several cases tied to alleged fraud operations connected to Ghana. Prosecutors revealed that related cases have been assigned to a single federal judge to help coordinate proceedings.
Federal officials also noted that several defendants in earlier investigations have already pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges involving wire fraud and money laundering. According to prosecutors, the combined prison sentences in those cases total around 50 years.
The Justice Department identified several previously prosecuted cases connected to similar alleged schemes. In United States v. Frederick Kumi and Daniel Yussif, both men from Ghana were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy in December 2025.
In another case, United States v. David Onyinye Abuanekwu, et al., several defendants received prison sentences after pleading guilty to conspiracy charges. Authorities stated that some defendants were also ordered to pay restitution to victims who lost money through the alleged scams.
Agencies Involved in the Investigation
Several U.S. and Ghanaian agencies assisted in the investigation, including:
- FBI Cleveland Division
- U.S. Department of Justice
- Ghana Police Service
- Ghana Cyber Security Authority
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Ghana Attorney General’s Office
Federal officials said international cooperation played an important role in gathering evidence and coordinating enforcement actions connected to the investigation.
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Romance Fraud Scams Continue to Target Older Americans
Law enforcement agencies say romance fraud scams remain one of the fastest-growing forms of online financial crime. These scams often involve fake photos, emotional conversations, and false promises designed to gain a victim’s trust. Authorities say scammers frequently avoid meeting victims in person and instead focus on requesting money through wire transfers or online payment methods.
Federal officials stated that this investigation is connected to the Elder Justice Initiative Program, which focuses on combating elder abuse, financial fraud, neglect, and scams targeting elderly Americans. The investigation leading to the indictment was led by the FBI Cleveland Division with support from multiple national and international agencies.