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Two brothers from Ghana and a woman from the United States have been indicted in connection with an alleged international romance fraud and money laundering scheme that targeted elderly Americans through dating websites and social media platforms.
According to US prosecutors, 22-year-old Jamal Abubakari, also known as “Arrangement,” his twin brother Kamal Abubakari, also known as “Lancaster,” and 53-year-old Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Court documents show the three suspects were arrested in Virginia and remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.
The indictment alleges that between July 2024 and April 2026, the defendants and their associates used fake online identities to establish emotional and romantic relationships with older victims in the United States. Prosecutors claim the suspects manipulated victims with fabricated stories before convincing them to transfer money into accounts controlled by members of the network.
Authorities said portions of the stolen funds were later transferred to co-conspirators in Ghana and other locations. The alleged operation forms part of a wider crackdown on romance fraud schemes tied to criminal networks accused of exploiting vulnerable elderly victims.
Federal investigators revealed that several related cases connected to Ghana-based fraud operations have already led to multiple convictions and lengthy prison sentences. Nine defendants linked to similar conspiracies have collectively received around 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money-laundering offences.
Among those previously sentenced were Otuo Amponsah of Ohio, who received 108 months in prison and was ordered to pay more than $3.3 million in restitution, and Portia Joe, who was sentenced to 51 months with restitution exceeding $2 million.
The FBI Cleveland Division led the investigation, with support from several US agencies and Ghanaian institutions, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Cyber Security Authority, and the Economic Organised Crime Office.
US Attorney David M. Toepfer acknowledged the assistance of both international and domestic partners involved in the investigation and prosecution.
Officials noted that the case is part of the Elder Justice Initiative Programme, which focuses on combating financial fraud, abuse, and scams targeting elderly citizens.
Prosecutors stressed that the indictment remains an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
