Reward for Fugitive ‘Cryptoqueen’ Raised to $5 Million: US Authorities Increase Bounty
By Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News
5 minutes read. Updated 4:00PM GMT Thurs, 27, 2024
In the pursuit of fugitive Ruja Ignatova, dubbed the ‘Cryptoqueen’, US authorities have escalated the reward for information leading to her arrest to $5 million (£4 million). Ignatova, a Bulgarian-born German national, stands accused of masterminding a colossal $4.5 billion cryptocurrency scam known as OneCoin.
Background and Allegations
Ruja Ignatova has been on the run since 2017, following the issuance of an arrest warrant by US officials amidst allegations of orchestrating one of the largest fraud schemes in history. Despite her disappearance, ongoing investigations have linked her to the Bulgarian underworld and alleged ties with organized crime figures, including suspected mafia involvement possibly linked to her disappearance or even her alleged murder.
Escalation of Reward
Initially listed with a $100,000 reward on the FBI’s top 10 most wanted list, the bounty was later increased to $250,000. Recently, under the US State Department’s Transnational Organized Crime Reward Program, the reward surged twenty-fold to $5 million. This move underscores the seriousness of efforts to apprehend Ignatova, who remains the sole woman targeted under this program.
Global Impact and Investigations
The saga surrounding Ignatova has captured international attention, catalyzed by investigative efforts such as a BBC podcast and documentary detailing her rise and fall. These revelations have intensified efforts to locate her, with authorities now focusing on incentivizing those close to her inner circle to provide crucial information.
Public and Expert Reaction
Commenting on the reward increase, Jamie Bartlett, whose BBC coverage brought Ignatova’s story to global prominence, speculated on its potential to sway those in her orbit to cooperate with authorities. He suggested that the $5 million reward might prove compelling enough to prompt individuals with knowledge of her whereabouts to come forward.
Legal Proceedings and Future Prospects
While German authorities have already levied charges against Ignatova, Bulgarian officials have announced plans to charge her in absentia, signaling a continued pursuit across jurisdictions. The escalation in reward money aims to accelerate investigative efforts and bring closure to one of the largest financial fraud cases in recent history.
As the search for Ruja Ignatova continues, the increased reward underscores a pivotal moment in the international pursuit of justice. With speculation ranging from her possible death to recent sightings, the global community awaits further developments in the dramatic saga of the Missing Cryptoqueen.
