The Gbese District Court has ruled against preliminary objections raised by lawyers for Frederick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica, in an extradition case that has drawn national attention.

In its determination, the court concluded that the defence failed to substantiate claims that the case is rooted in political persecution or that the accused was entrapped into committing any alleged offences. The judge held that there was no credible basis for these arguments, effectively clearing a major hurdle that had stalled the extradition process.

Following the decision, the court indicated that proceedings toward extradition can continue, unless overturned through further legal action.

Speaking after the ruling, counsel for the accused said the court maintained that the defence had not demonstrated any political link to the alleged crimes, adding that the judge’s position was that extradition should proceed.

However, the court has allowed a 15-day period within which the defence may challenge the ruling. During this window, Abu Trica’s legal team can file an appeal or seek a review of the decision.

The lawyer criticised the outcome, describing it as flawed and suggesting that the team is prepared to escalate the matter to a higher court for reconsideration.

The case has generated widespread interest due to allegations connecting the accused to cross-border fraud operations. Authorities from the requesting country are pursuing extradition to prosecute offences said to involve online scams targeting individuals outside Ghana.

Abu Trica continues to deny any involvement in wrongdoing. His lawyers are expected to decide on their next legal steps within the timeframe provided, with the outcome of any challenge likely to shape whether he is ultimately extradited to face trial abroad.