Derrick “Van” Yeboah, a Ghanaian national, has pleaded guilty in a US court to defrauding American victims of over $10 million through romance scams and business email compromise schemes.

Yeboah, who was extradited to the United States in August 2025, was part of a Ghana-based criminal organization responsible for defrauding victims of more than $100 million in total.

Authorities say the group used sophisticated cyber techniques to target unsuspecting individuals and businesses, exploiting trust and financial transactions for illicit gain.

The US Department of Justice confirmed that it is working closely with the Government of Ghana and international partners to investigate and prosecute cyber and transnational criminal networks that target Americans.

“These cases highlight the growing threat of cybercrime and the need for strong international cooperation to hold perpetrators accountable,” the U.S. authorities said in a statement.

Yeboah’s guilty plea is expected to lead to a formal sentencing hearing in the coming months. US officials have reiterated their commitment to pursuing transnational criminals and recovering stolen funds where possible.

Cybersecurity experts warn that such schemes are increasingly common and urge individuals and businesses to remain vigilant, especially regarding unsolicited emails, online romance engagements, and business communications requesting financial transfers.