COLUMBUS, Ohio — Federal authorities announced the arrest of five suspects accused of orchestrating a sophisticated romance scam that targeted more than 100 elderly Americans on dating sites, stealing approximately $15 million while flaunting their ill-gotten gains with luxury cars, jewelry, and a mansion in West Africa.

The suspects, primarily based in Ghana, allegedly used advanced techniques including AI-generated videos to create false personas, build trust with victims, and then fabricate stories about inheritances, gold, or diamonds requiring financial assistance for “legal proceedings.” One victim, a 74-year-old man, lost $1.1 million after draining his accounts to help his supposed romantic interest.

According to Northern Ohio U.S. Attorney David Toepfer, the perpetrators bragged openly on social media. Photos entered as evidence show two suspects wearing “Business is Business” shirts in front of a red Lamborghini, alongside images of a fleet of luxury vehicles (including a Tesla Cybertruck, Mercedes, and BMW), jewelry, handbags, and a lavish Ghanaian mansion with a swimming pool surrounded by modest huts.

Three suspects — including one U.S. citizen — are in federal custody, while two others were arrested in Ghana and face extradition. They will face federal charges, with their own social media posts expected to serve as powerful evidence against them.

The bust was announced during a press conference highlighting the work of Vice President JD Vance’s anti-fraud task force. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel also attended the event.

Toepfer emphasized the Justice Department’s commitment: “These indictments send a stark message… we will hunt you down to the ends of the earth to ensure that you are brought to justice.”

The operation ties into broader Trump administration efforts to combat fraud against vulnerable populations, including the recent launch of the FBI’s new “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list. Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant against romance scams, which continue to prey on elderly victims through emotional manipulation and high-tech deception.