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U.S. federal authorities have arrested Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder, in a high-profile international operation that marks the end of a years-long manhunt. Wedding, who once represented Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics, is now accused of running a massive transnational drug trafficking organization that allegedly moved cocaine across North America and laundered profits using cryptocurrency.
According to U.S. officials, Wedding was captured in Mexico through a joint operation involving American and Mexican law enforcement agencies. He had been listed on the FBI’s Most Wanted roster, with investigators describing him as one of the most dangerous fugitives linked to organized crime networks operating between Latin America, the United States, and Canada.
Allegations and Criminal Network
Prosecutors allege that Wedding led a sophisticated criminal enterprise responsible for transporting large quantities of cocaine from Colombia into the U.S. and Canada, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in illegal proceeds. Court documents claim the group relied on crypto assets, including stable coins, to move money across borders and obscure financial trails — a tactic increasingly scrutinized by global regulators.
The indictment also includes violent crime allegations, with authorities claiming the organization ordered murders and intimidation campaigns to silence witnesses and protect its operations.
From Olympic Slopes to Global Manhunt
Wedding’s transformation from elite athlete to alleged cartel-linked trafficker has shocked both the sports world and law enforcement officials. Investigators say his athletic background helped him maintain international mobility and a low profile for years while allegedly expanding his criminal operations.
More than 30 associates connected to the network have reportedly been arrested, and authorities have seized cash, luxury assets, vehicles, and cryptocurrency wallets tied to the operation.
Broader Implications
The case highlights growing concerns among regulators and law enforcement agencies about the use of digital assets in organized crime, even as officials emphasize that blockchain transactions often leave traceable records that ultimately aid investigations.
Wedding is expected to be extradited to the United States, where he will face federal charges that could carry multiple life sentences if convicted.
