UPDATE: Mexican authorities have launched a series of raids targeting Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympian and one of the FBI’s most-wanted fugitives. In a dramatic operation on December 25, 2023, officials seized a trove of drugs, Olympic medals, and 62 high-end motorcycles, marking a significant step in the ongoing manhunt for Wedding, who is accused of leading a billion-dollar drug-trafficking ring.
The raids took place across four locations in Mexico City and the State of Mexico, with authorities confirming the seizure of methamphetamine, marijuana, ammunition, and various documents. Although Wedding represented Canada in the 2002 Winter Olympics, finishing 24th in the men’s parallel giant slalom, he did not medal, raising questions about the origin of the two Olympic medals discovered during the raids.
Officials did not explicitly name Wedding as the target of the operation. However, they referred to “a former Olympic athlete who is among the ten most wanted fugitives by US authorities,” making it clear that he is the only Olympic athlete currently wanted by the FBI. Wedding was added to the FBI’s most-wanted list in March 2023 after being identified as the alleged kingpin of a sophisticated crime syndicate involved in mass drug smuggling and contract killings.
According to the FBI, Wedding’s organization is responsible for trafficking approximately 60 metric tonnes of cocaine annually from Mexico to Canada via California. This staggering operation is believed to generate around $1 billion a year, highlighting the serious implications of his criminal activities.
The urgency of this situation is compounded by the ongoing violence associated with drug trafficking in the region, which has led to widespread concern among local communities and international observers alike. As authorities continue their search for Wedding, the impact of his alleged crimes reverberates through the communities affected by drug addiction and violence.
As the investigation unfolds, officials are urging anyone with information about Wedding’s whereabouts to come forward. The raids represent a critical move in a larger effort to dismantle the drug network he allegedly oversees and to restore safety in the affected areas.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as officials work tirelessly to apprehend this fugitive. The implications of these raids extend beyond law enforcement, touching on public health, safety, and the fight against drug trafficking on a global scale.
