Since both @dan and @ned have left, I suspect no one here is able to provide the answer to this question. Neither am I surprised this question has never been answered previously. The ninjamine was clearly undertaken to centralize governance by the founders while avoiding regulations on ICOs. Since intent is a critical factor in criminal prosecution, those answers are potentially liabilities, and I would not expect counsel would recommend the folks that could provide them do so.

It is mysterious how @ben was able to withdraw Steem the account never received.

Thanks!

Edit: I did find this

which may be @ben's only post, and

I also note @twinner's comment may explain the circumstance. Examination of the transformation of SP to Steem reveals it is not a 1=1 transaction.