Ghanaian Brothers, American Accomplice Admit Defrauding Older Victims Through Fake Romance

Two Ghanaian twin brothers and a 53-year-old American woman have pleaded guilty in the United States to participating in an international romance fraud scheme that defrauded victims of more than $9 million.

The US Department of Justice announced the guilty pleas on Monday, October 26, saying the defendants used fake identities on dating websites and social media platforms to establish romantic relationships with victims, many of whom were older Americans.

The brothers, Jamal Abubakari and Kamal Abubakari, both 22, pleaded guilty on October 13 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Their co-defendant, Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie, 53, of Kula, Hawaii, entered her guilty plea on October 20.

According to court documents, the scheme operated from approximately July 2024 to April 2026. The defendants and other alleged members of the network created false online identities and built close personal relationships with victims, often presenting themselves as romantic partners.

After gaining the victims’ trust, the conspirators allegedly used fabricated stories to persuade them to transfer money into financial accounts controlled by members of the network. Some of the proceeds were subsequently transferred to accomplices in Ghana and other locations.

Investigators said victims across 25 US states were affected, alongside people in Germany and Austria. In northern Ohio, some victims lived in Edgerton, a community in Williams County. The combined financial losses exceeded $9 million.

As part of their plea agreements, the three defendants agreed to forfeit jewellery seized during their arrests. The items included luxury watches, rings, chains, medallions and earrings.

The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Cleveland Division, with support from the US Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and several law enforcement agencies in Ghana and the United States. Ghanaian agencies involved included the Attorney-General’s Office, the Economic and Organised Crime Office, the Ghana Police Service and the Cyber Security Authority.

Each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. However, the final penalties will be determined by a federal judge after considering the US sentencing guidelines and other factors relevant to each defendant.

The Abubakari brothers are scheduled to be sentenced on February 9, 2027, while Opoku-Boachie’s sentencing is set for February 10, 2027.

The prosecution forms part of the US Justice Department’s Elder Justice Initiative, which coordinates efforts to combat financial exploitation and fraud targeting older people.

The case highlights the financial risks associated with online relationships when fraudsters use fabricated identities and emotional manipulation to solicit money. Authorities continue to encourage the public to exercise caution when online acquaintances request financial assistance or transfers.