Frederick Kumi, well known as Abu Trica, is facing extradition to the United States over alleged involvement in a romance and wire fraud case. However, his lawyer has strongly rejected the claims, arguing that sending money within a consensual relationship does not constitute a romance scam.
According to his lawyer, the detention violates basic principles of due process. “No credible evidence has been presented, and no warrant has been issued to authorize this arrest,” the defense stated. “Holding someone under these circumstances undermines the very foundation of justice.”
The lawyer emphasized that the presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of the legal system. “Detention should be an exception, not the default,” he said. “What we are seeing here is punishment without proof, which is unacceptable in any fair society.”
Abu Trika’s case has drawn attention from both local and international observers concerned with human rights and legal fairness. Experts note that holding an individual without presenting evidence or obtaining judicial approval not only violates national law but can also contravene international standards for the treatment of detainees. Speaking on the matter, his lawyer dismissed the characterisation of the alleged conduct as a romance scam, questioning the logic behind the charge. According to him, the mere act of sending money within a consensual relationship does not automatically amount to criminal activity.
The lawyer maintained that relationships often involve financial exchanges and gifts, particularly where parties willingly support one another, and that such arrangements should not be conflated with fraud unless there is clear evidence of deception or coercion.
Abu Trica’s legal troubles have attracted public attention following his arrest and the subsequent extradition request from the United States. Recent court proceedings in Accra have already raised questions about the strength of the case, after prosecutors conceded that there was no evidence against two alleged accomplices initially linked to the matter.
The defense is calling for Abu Trika’s immediate release or, at the very least, for authorities to provide a clear justification supported by law and evidence. “This is not just about Abu Trika,” his lawyer said. “It is about protecting the rule of law. If we allow detention without proof today, it endangers everyone’s rights tomorrow.”
The case continues to develop, with legal representatives promising to challenge the detention in court and push for transparency in the proceedings.
