In a major law enforcement success, Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder turned alleged international drug trafficker, has been arrested in Mexico and is now in U.S. custody, authorities confirmed on Friday, January 23, 2026.
Ryan Wedding, 44, once competed for Canada in snowboarding at the 2002 Winter Olympics. But over the past decade, he became one of the most wanted fugitives in North America. The FBI had placed him on its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list with a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest and conviction.
Officials say Wedding was arrested in Mexico after a long international search involving U.S. agencies and Mexican authorities. He is now being flown back to the United States to face federal charges related to a large-scale cocaine trafficking network that operated across the Americas.
According to law enforcement statements, Wedding allegedly led a transnational drug supply chain that moved drugs from Colombia through Mexico and into the United States and Canada. Authorities described the operation as highly organized and dangerously violent.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the capture as a major victory, noting that Wedding is the latest top fugitive arrested after an extensive international effort. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said the arrest will help stem organized crime and drug trafficking affecting communities in the United States and beyond.
The criminal case against Wedding includes multiple serious offenses. Federal prosecutors allege he ran the drug ring, orchestrated acts of violence, and played a role in the murders of people connected to ongoing investigations. These allegations date back to actions spanning several years.
The wedding’s dramatic fall from Olympic athlete to alleged crime figure made headlines across North America. His arrest closes a long chapter of international pursuit by law enforcement agencies determined to bring top fugitives to justice.
This news marks a major step forward in combating global drug trafficking and reinforces the commitment of U.S. and international partners to hold dangerous criminals accountable.
Leave a Reply