Mexican authorities have seized assets worth an estimated $40 million (£30m) believed to belong to Ryan Wedding, a Canadian former Olympic snowboarder. The seizures are connected to allegations that Wedding is a major narcotics trafficker.
Seizures and Allegations
The FBI announced that Mexican authorities, with assistance from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Los Angeles Police Department, conducted raids resulting in the seizure of 62 motorcycles, many of which appear to be Ducatis. These seizures follow the confiscation last month of a $13 million Mercedes hypercar also linked to Wedding.
Officials allege Wedding is among the largest narcotics traffickers in North America and has ordered dozens of murders in the US, Canada, and Latin America. He is currently on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, with a $15 million reward offered for information leading to his arrest.
The seized assets were located at four properties in Mexico City and the surrounding region. In addition to the vehicles, authorities also seized luxury paintings, artworks, drugs, and two Olympic gold medals, though it remains unclear to whom the medals belong.
A Pattern of Criminal Activity
According to officials, Wedding allegedly launched his criminal enterprise after being released from a US federal prison in 2011, where he served time for cocaine distribution. He is believed to be operating under the protection of Mexican drug cartels. US officials have likened his alleged operations to those of Pablo Escobar and Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.
Wedding is known by several aliases, including “El Jefe,” “Giant,” “Public Enemy,” “James Conrad King,” and “Jesse King.” He also faces charges in the US related to witness tampering, intimidation, money laundering, and drug trafficking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific charges is Ryan Wedding facing in the United States?
He has been charged with witness tampering and intimidation, money laundering, and drug trafficking.
Where did the seizures of assets take place?
The seizures took place at four properties in Mexico City and the surrounding region.
What is the reward being offered for information leading to Ryan Wedding’s arrest?
A reward of $15 million is being offered for information leading to his arrest.
Given the ongoing investigation and Wedding’s status as a fugitive, what steps might authorities take next to locate and apprehend him?
