Lexington, KY — Nigerian software developer and self-proclaimed “Tech Queen,” Sapphire Egemasi, is facing up to 20 years in a U.S. federal prison following her arrest by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in connection with a transnational cyber fraud scheme that allegedly siphoned millions from U.S. government institutions. dailypost.ng
Egemasi was apprehended in April 2025 in the Bronx, New York, alongside Ghanaian national Samuel Kwadwo Osei, who is believed to be the leader of the fraud ring. The charges stem from a federal indictment for internet fraud and money laundering, with the alleged crimes occurring between September 2021 and February 2023.
Court documents allege that Egemasi’s role involved creating fake U.S. government websites to steal login credentials, which were then used to divert public funds. She also reportedly assisted in transferring stolen money into accounts controlled by the syndicate. Investigators claim the group rerouted $965,000 and $330,000—both stolen from the city of Kentucky—into accounts at PNC Bank and Bank of America in 2022.
Egemasi, who previously resided in Cambridge, UK, is believed to have met her co-conspirators in Ghana years ago. She later became the syndicate’s tech specialist, operating across the U.S. and Nigeria. To conceal the source of her income, she claimed to have interned at companies like BP, H&M, and Zara.
Known for her flashy online presence, Egemasi often posted photos of expensive trips to countries like Greece and Portugal, presenting a life of success fueled by tech expertise.
She and her co-defendants are currently being held in Lexington, Kentucky, awaiting trial. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison, substantial fines, and possible deportation.
