The U.S. Department of Justice has unsealed three indictments targeting Ghanaian nationals involved in transnational romance fraud schemes that preyed on elderly Americans.
The cases, announced in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, highlight a coordinated effort to dismantle criminal networks exploiting vulnerable seniors. Among those charged is Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng, alias “Dada Joe Remix,” who allegedly orchestrated a decade-long scam involving fictitious gold and jewels. Boateng was arrested in Ghana on May 28 and awaits extradition to the U.S. to face charges of wire fraud and money laundering. The FBI-led investigations underscore the global reach of these crimes and the commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
In a related development, Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior has issued an extradition order for four other Ghanaian nationals—Isaac Oduro Boateng, Inusah Ahmed, Derrick Van Yeboah, and Patrick Kwame Asare—following a requisition by U.S. authorities. The document, signed by Minister Munataka Mohammed-Mubarak, directs the Accra District Court to issue arrest warrants under Ghana’s Extradition Act of 1960. This legal action aligns with the U.S. crackdown on fraud networks operating across borders. The suspects are believed to be involved in similar schemes targeting elderly Americans, though specific charges remain undisclosed. The collaboration between Ghanaian and U.S. officials reflects growing international cooperation to combat financial crimes.
The unsealed indictments reveal a pattern of deception, with defendants accused of leveraging fake romantic relationships and false business promises to defraud victims. In one case, a group including Dwayne Asafo Adjei and Nancy Adom allegedly laundered proceeds through Ghana and other locations. Another indictment implicates Otuo Amponsah and Hannah Adom in a conspiracy that extracted millions from seniors. U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the Justice Department’s resolve to protect older Americans, noting the rise in romance frauds originating on social media. These scams often escalate into complex financial traps, leaving victims emotionally and financially devastated.
The cases highlight the escalating threat of transnational fraud and the need for robust cross-border legal frameworks. While U.S. authorities pursue prosecutions, Ghana’s compliance with extradition requests signals a willingness to address its citizens’ alleged involvement in global crime. However, the challenges of jurisdiction, evidence collection, and victim restitution remain significant. As law enforcement agencies intensify efforts, public awareness campaigns are critical to preventing exploitation. For now, the extradition orders and indictments mark a pivotal step in the fight against elder fraud, sending a clear message that perpetrators will face justice, regardless of borders.
