DOJ alleges $1.8M scheme ran from July 2024 to April 2026 using fake dating profiles
Two Ghanaian brothers and a U.S.-based woman have been indicted in the United States over an alleged romance fraud and money laundering operation that prosecutors say defrauded elderly Americans out of millions.
The defendants are identified as Jamal Abubakari, known online as “Arrangement,” and Kamal Abubakari, known as “Lancaster,” along with Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the trio used fake identities on dating sites and social media to build romantic relationships with victims before persuading them to send money via wire transfers.
Authorities allege the scheme operated between July 2024 and April 2026. Some of the funds were reportedly transferred to accomplices in Ghana and other countries.
The arrests took place in Virginia, where all three remain in custody while awaiting court proceedings. The investigation was led by the FBI Cleveland Division with assistance from Ghanaian and U.S. security agencies.
Prosecutors emphasized that the indictment contains only allegations at this stage. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Romance fraud cases targeting older adults have risen sharply in recent years, with scammers often spending weeks or months cultivating trust before requesting money for fabricated emergencies, travel, or investments.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR READERS
If you or someone you know is active on dating platforms, be cautious of relationships that move quickly to declarations of love and soon after to requests for money. The FBI advises never sending money to someone you haven’t met in person, and to report suspicious activity to http://ic3.gov.
