Ghanaian twin brothers plead guilty in US $9 million romance scam
Jamal and Kamal Abubakari pleaded guilty on 13 Oct 2026 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a romance scam that defrauded victims of more than $9 million
In Brief
- •Jamal and Kamal Abubakari pleaded guilty on 13 Oct 2026 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a romance scam that defrauded victims of more than $9 million
- •Their co‑conspirator, Amanda Joy Opoku‑Boachie, pleaded guilty on 20 Oct 2026
- •The scheme targeted older Americans via dating sites and social media from July 2024 to April 2026, affecting victims in 25 US states, Germany and Austria
- •Defendants agreed to forfeit jewelry seized during arrests
- •Sentencing is scheduled for 9 Feb 2027 (brothers) and 10 Feb 2027 (Opoku‑Boachie)
Why It Matters
The case illustrates the growing threat of international romance scams that prey on older Americans, highlighting the need for cross‑border law enforcement cooperation and public awareness. The $9 million loss underscores the financial impact on vulnerable victims and the importance of robust fraud‑prevention measures.
Key Details
- Total Defrauded Amount
- $9 million
- Victim States
- 25
- Victim Countries
- 3
- Sentencing Date (Brothers)
- Feb 9 2027
- Sentencing Date (Co‑conspirator)
- Feb 10 2027
- Maximum Sentence
- 20 years
Context & Background
The prosecution falls under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative, which coordinates efforts to combat financial fraud targeting older people.
What To Watch
Sentencing of the Abubakari brothers on February 9, 2027
Original Reporting & Sources
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