Ghanaian influencer extradited to US over $8m scam targeting elderly Americans

According to prosecutors, Kumi utilized artificial intelligence to generate fake online personas, which he then employed to gain the trust of victims through social media and dating applications. These victims were allegedly coerced into sending money or valuables under false pretenses, such as fabricated urgent medical needs, travel expenses, or investment opportunities. The funds were then purportedly channeled to co-conspirators in both Ghana and the US, with Kumi allegedly involved in distributing the money.

Kumi's lawyer, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, stated that he attempted to halt the extradition through a court order on Thursday, only to discover later that Kumi had already departed for the US on a Delta Airlines flight. Barker-Vormawor has accused the Ghanaian government of circumventing judicial processes by proceeding with the extradition before a court verdict, raising significant constitutional questions.

The Ghanaian government has not yet issued a statement on the matter. Kumi, who hails from Swedru in southern Ghana, had amassed over 100,000 followers on Instagram, where he frequently showcased a lavish lifestyle involving cars, cash, and luxury properties, which had previously raised suspicions about the source of his wealth.

The prosecution is being conducted under the US Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act. This extradition follows a broader trend of increased enforcement actions by US authorities against criminal networks in West Africa targeting elderly Americans.