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Investigator claims fugitive ‘cryptoqueen’ is alive

'Cryptoqueen' Remains Elusive | Investigators Assert She's Alive

By

Michael O'Sullivan

Jan 23, 2026, 07:22 AM

Edited By

Amir Khorram

Updated

Jan 23, 2026, 01:27 PM

2 minutes reading time

A group of investigators looking at a map and discussing the search for the fugitive known as the Cryptoqueen, with concerned expressions on their faces.

Ruja Ignatova, the mastermind behind the OneCoin scam that defrauded investors of £3.6 billion, is reportedly still alive, despite earlier claims of her murder. Investigators emphasize her continued elusiveness, igniting ongoing debates about her whereabouts and the broader implications for the cryptocurrency sector.

Latest Developments in the Case

Interest in Ignatova's tale surged again with the recent release of three new episodes of a podcast titled The Missing Crypto Queen, which delves into her story. This has sparked renewed public fascination with her case, highlighting the desire for answers among investors.

Continued Speculation and Public Interest

Since her disappearance, which began in 2017, rumors have swirled regarding Ignatova's location, with sightings reported globally, including South Africa. German police continue to assert she is alive, lacking definitive proof of her demise. The ongoing uncertainty around her status fuels speculation in forums and social media, with many eager for closure.

One commenter voiced excitement, saying, "Can’t wait to listen to this, exceptional podcast," underscoring the community's engagement with the story.

Themes Emerging from the Discussion

  • Investor Injustice: There’s palpable frustration among victims who feel abandoned. One person noted, "3.5 billion buys a whole lot of run," illustrating the scale of her escape and the ongoing impact on those defrauded.

  • Impact of Media Coverage: The resurgence of interest in Ignatova's case through podcasts reflects a broader societal demand for accountability. As another commented, "This podcast is excellent! Thanks for that," indicating that media attention plays a significant role in maintaining public interest.

  • Emotional Reactions: Many express hope and disbelief regarding her fate. "I really thought she was dead," illustrates the mixed sentiment surrounding her disappearance, highlighting the emotional undertones in the investigation.

Sentiment Patterns

The mood in public discussions about Ignatova's potential capture remains mixed—stemming from frustration among investors and optimistic engagement with newfound media tales.

Key Insights from the Investigation

  • 🔹 Investigators maintain Ignatova is lively and remains at large.

  • 🔹 Media projects are revitalizing public interest in her story.

  • 🔹 The case highlights substantial risks in the cryptocurrency market.

  • "This sets a dangerous precedent for future scams," one comment noted.

The search continues as people await potential developments, with hopes that Ignatova's capture could lead to stronger regulations in cryptocurrency practices. Experts speculate that her impact on the industry could be profound if she is captured, with significant implications for regulatory oversight and accountability in the current crypto landscape.