Nigerian software developer, Sapphire Egemasi, popularly known as the "Tech Queen," has been arrested by the FBI in the Bronx for her alleged role in a transnational cybercrime syndicate that defrauded multiple U.S. government agencies of over $1.3 million.

Egemasi, 28, was apprehended in April 2025 following a federal grand jury indictment filed in 2024 charging her and co-conspirators with internet fraud and money laundering.

The syndicate, led by Ghanaian national Samuel Kwadwo Osei, targeted U.S. municipal governments, including Kentucky, by creating fake government websites to steal login credentials from officials.

These credentials were then used to redirect public funds into fraudulent bank accounts controlled by the group.

Court documents reveal that Egemasi was the syndicate’s key tech specialist, designing spoofed websites and facilitating the laundering of stolen funds through complex wire transfers.

Notably, $965,000 and $330,000 were diverted to accounts at PNC Bank and Bank of America, respectively, disguised as legitimate transactions.

Prior to her arrest, Egemasi maintained a lavish online persona showcasing designer fashion, luxury gadgets, and international travel, which investigators say was funded by the proceeds of her alleged crimes.

She also falsely claimed internships at multinational companies such as BP, H&M, and Zara to bolster her credibility.

Egemasi and her co-defendants are currently held in federal custody in Lexington, Kentucky, awaiting trial.

If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in prison, substantial fines, and possible deportation after serving her sentence. The case highlights ongoing U.S. efforts to crack down on cybercrime rings exploiting government financial systems.

This high-profile arrest serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of sophisticated cyber fraud and the importance of vigilance in protecting public funds.