UPDATE: Authorities in Mexico have launched a series of urgent raids targeting former Canadian Olympian Ryan Wedding, who is wanted by the FBI for allegedly leading a massive drug-trafficking operation. The raids, conducted on Christmas Day, resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of drugs, Olympic medals, and more than 62 high-end motorcycles across multiple locations in Mexico City and the State of Mexico.
Mexican officials confirmed that they were executing operations aimed at a fugitive listed among the FBI’s 10 most-wanted fugitives. While the authorities did not explicitly name Wedding, he is the only Olympic athlete currently sought by U.S. law enforcement. The raids uncovered not only drugs, including methamphetamine and marijuana, but also ammunition and various artworks, marking a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into his criminal activities.
Wedding, who represented Canada in the 2002 Olympic Games, has been accused of orchestrating a billion-dollar drug trafficking ring connected to the smuggling of 60 metric tonnes of cocaine annually from Mexico into the United States and Canada. He was added to the FBI’s most-wanted list in March 2023 for his alleged role as the kingpin in this extensive operation, which reportedly involves mass drug smuggling and contract killings.
The seized Olympic medals raise questions, as Wedding himself did not win any during his competition; authorities have yet to clarify the origins of these medals. This developing situation highlights the stark contrast between the world of elite sports and the dangerous underbelly of organized crime.
As the investigation unfolds, officials are urging anyone with information regarding Ryan Wedding’s whereabouts to come forward. The public’s cooperation could be pivotal in bringing this fugitive to justice.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent and developing story.
