A Ghanaian national, Derrick Van Yeboah, has pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud conspiracy in connection with a massive romance scam operation that defrauded victims of more than $10 million. The scheme targeted vulnerable individuals, primarily elderly Americans, through sophisticated online deception tactics. His co-conspirators, businessman Kofi Boat and Inusah Ahmed (aka “Pascal”), owner of PAC Academy football club in Offinso, were extradited alongside him from Ghana to the United States.

Details of the Scam Operation

From 2018 to 2023, Van Yeboah, Kofi Boat, and Inusah Ahmed posed as trustworthy figures—such as U.S. military personnel, high-level executives, and romantic partners—on dating websites and social media platforms. They built long-term relationships with over 200 victims, many in their 70s and older, before extracting funds under false pretenses.

Common ruses included fabricated emergencies like “customs fees” for leave, medical crises, or investment opportunities in cryptocurrency and stocks. Victims were coerced into sending money via wire transfers, gift cards, and other untraceable methods.

Investigation and Extradition

The trio—Derrick Van Yeboah, Kofi Boat, and Inusah Ahmed—was extradited from Ghana following a joint U.S.-Ghanaian investigation. Authorities seized over $1 million in assets linked to the scams. The operation relied on U.S.-based money mules to launder proceeds through banks and services like MoneyGram.

“These scammers preyed on the lonely and trusting, stealing not just money but dignity,” stated a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Van Yeboah’s guilty plea marks a significant step in dismantling the international fraud ring involving Kofi Boat and Inusah Ahmed “Pascal.”