Ghanaian social media influencer Mona Faiz Montrage, widely known as Hajia4Reall, has recently been extradited from the United Kingdom to the United States, facing allegations of being involved in a deceptive lonely hearts scam targeting older, single individuals.
The 30-year-old influencer appeared in Manhattan federal court, where prosecutors presented evidence outlining her participation in a series of romance schemes that specifically targeted vulnerable victims.
Federal prosecutors have revealed that Montrage, alongside a group of fraudsters originating from West Africa, operated a long-lasting scam that spanned from 2013 to 2019.
The scammers adopted false identities and utilized various communication channels, including emails, text messages, and social media platforms, to deceive their targets into believing they were engaged in genuine relationships.
Once the victims' trust was gained, they were manipulated into transferring money under false pretexts, such as assisting with gold transportation, resolving fictitious FBI investigations, or providing support to fake US Army officers stationed in Afghanistan.
One specific case highlighted in court documents involves Montrage allegedly convincing a victim to send a total of $89,000 through 82 wire transfers, claiming that the funds would contribute to her father's farm in Ghana.
To further deceive the victim, Montrage allegedly presented a tribal marriage certificate, leading them to believe they were married after engaging in a series of phone conversations using Montrage's real identity.
Prosecutors additionally accuse her of receiving money from several other victims who fell victim to scammers within her network.
Manhattan US Attorney Damian Williams emphasized the devastating impact of such romance scams, particularly on older individuals. He stated,
“These scams can be both financially and emotionally devastating for vulnerable victims.”
Williams commended the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in apprehending Montrage overseas and ensuring that she faces legal consequences in the United States.
Montrage has been charged with wire fraud, money laundering, receipt of stolen money, and conspiracy.
If convicted on the most severe charge, she could potentially face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
During her court appearance, Montrage pleaded not guilty and is anticipated to be released on a $500,000 bond, with the condition of home detention at her aunt's residence in New Jersey.
Her movements will be restricted to specific areas within New York and New Jersey until the case is resolved.
