Ghanaian twin brothers face 20 years in prison over $9m romance scam
Twin brothers from Ghana and a 53-year-old American woman are facing up to 20 years in prison each after pleading guilty to their roles in an international romance scam that defrauded victims of more than $9 million.
The brothers, Jamal Abubakari and Kamal Abubakari, both 22, and their co-defendant, Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in October 2026.
According to court documents, the criminal operation lasted from July 2024 to April 2026, during which the defendants allegedly used fake identities on dating platforms and social media to gain the trust of unsuspecting victims.
They reportedly posed as romantic partners, building emotional connections with their targets before persuading them to send money to bank accounts controlled by members of the network.
The victims were spread across 25 states in the United States, including Ohio, as well as Germany and Austria. Investigators said some of the proceeds were transferred to alleged accomplices in Ghana and other locations.
As part of their plea agreements, the defendants agreed to forfeit jewellery and luxury items seized during their arrests. The items reportedly included expensive watches, rings, chains, medallions and earrings.
Each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years' imprisonment. The twin brothers are scheduled to be sentenced on February 9, 2027, while Opoku-Boachie is expected to appear for sentencing on February 10, 2027.
The maximum penalty does not mean the defendants will necessarily receive the full 20-year sentence, as their actual sentences will be determined by the court.
Ghanaian twin brothers face 20 years in prison over $9m romance scam