OneCoin Founder Ruja Ignatova Pursued by U.S. Authorities
U.S. authorities are actively searching for Ruja Ignatova, the elusive founder of OneCoin, also known as “Cryptoqueen,” in connection with a $4 billion Ponzi scheme. The U.S. State Department has offered up to $5 million as a reward for information leading to her apprehension or conviction. Ignatova vanished in 2017 after the U.S. government revealed her indictment for involvement in the international fraud operation.
The OneCoin Ponzi Scheme and Ignatova’s Role
Ruja Ignatova and her accomplices amassed around $4 billion from investors between 2014 and 2017, promising significant returns in exchange for investments. However, it was later discovered that the project had no presence on any blockchain or decentralized network. Described as one of the largest global fraud schemes in history by the State Department, Ignatova’s fraudulent campaign led to arrests and convictions of her associates, including co-founder Karl Greenwood and legal personnel connected to OneCoin.
Legal Troubles and Fugitive Status of Ruja Ignatova
Despite the imprisonment of her associates, Ruja Ignatova remains at large, with her current whereabouts unknown. Facing charges in multiple countries, including Bulgaria, Germany, India, and the U.S., Ignatova is wanted for crimes such as wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and securities fraud. Speculations about her potential whereabouts, including plastic surgery and criminal encounters, have not been confirmed, and Ignatova continues to evade authorities.
