A former Olympic snowboarder has made headlines for all the wrong reasons. Ryan Wedding, who represented Canada in the giant slalom at the 2002 Winter Olympics, has been added to the FBI’s list of 10 most wanted fugitives. The FBI is offering a staggering $10 million reward for information leading to his capture.
Wedding, 43, is accused of running a major international drug smuggling operation linked to four murders. He allegedly shipped large quantities of cocaine from Colombia through Mexico and Southern California, ultimately reaching Canada and other parts of the United States. His criminal activities have earned him several nicknames, including "El Jefe," "Giant," and "Public Enemy."
Authorities believe Wedding orchestrated a series of violent crimes, including the killings of two family members in Canada. These murders reportedly stemmed from a mistaken identity related to a stolen drug shipment. The FBI has stated that Wedding is a dangerous individual, with his actions leading to significant harm and loss of life.
In September, Wedding was indicted on charges that he and his associates arranged the shipment of approximately 60 tons of cocaine each year using long-haul trucks. The FBI has already arrested a dozen people in connection with the case, which highlights the extensive network involved in this drug trafficking operation.
FBI officials have indicated that Wedding is likely in Mexico but have not ruled out the possibility that he could be hiding in the U.S., Canada, or several Central American countries. They are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.
Matthew Allen, a special agent with the FBI, emphasized the urgency of the situation, describing Wedding as "callous" and "greed-driven." He called for public help in locating the fugitive, whose descent from Olympic athlete to alleged drug lord has shocked many.