Key facts
- Federal authorities have busted a romance scam operation.
- The scam originated from Africa and targeted elderly victims.
- The perpetrators defrauded victims of $15 million.
- Alleged images showed luxury goods and a mansion.
Federal authorities have announced the dismantling of a sophisticated romance scam network with ties to Africa. The operation specifically targeted elderly individuals, successfully defrauding them of approximately $15 million. Evidence gathered by investigators includes images allegedly posted by the conspirators, which depicted significant displays of wealth, such as jewelry, luxury handbags, a fleet of expensive cars, and a mansion in Ghana, reportedly surrounded by more modest dwellings.