Mexican authorities have conducted raids resulting in the seizure of motorcycles, Olympic medals, and illicit substances, in what appears to be linked to the pursuit of Canadian fugitive Ryan Wedding. While not explicitly naming Wedding, the government’s announcement indicated the operations were aimed at a foreign ex-Olympian on the U.S. most-wanted list, a description that aligns with Wedding, a former snowboarder from Thunder Bay, Ontario, who participated in the 2002 Winter Olympics.
The security secretariat of Mexico disclosed that the raids targeted four properties in Mexico City and the surrounding state of Mexico, involving various agencies such as the navy, national guard, and federal agents from the attorney general’s office. Among the items confiscated were 62 luxury motorcycles, two vehicles, two Olympic medals, drugs including methamphetamine and marijuana, art pieces, ammunition, and documents.
Although the ownership of the medals remains unclear, Wedding placed 24th in the 2002 Olympics and did not return to subsequent Games. Allegations suggest that Wedding transitioned into criminal activities post-Olympics, establishing a drug-smuggling empire worth billions and allegedly involved in numerous homicides, with reports indicating his current whereabouts in Mexico.
The U.S. government is offering a substantial reward for Wedding’s apprehension, highlighting his utilization of a sophisticated network of assets, including luxury cars, real estate, companies, and cryptocurrency, to conceal his significant wealth. Recent investigative efforts led to the seizure of a rare Mercedes-Benz vehicle in Miami, believed to be linked to Wedding’s money laundering operations.
Law enforcement agencies have intensified their search efforts, with the FBI launching social media campaigns targeting areas surrounding Mexico City where Wedding is suspected to be hiding. Additionally, connections to individuals like Wedding’s alleged girlfriend and criminal associates have been identified, further underscoring the ongoing pursuit of the fugitive. Wedding’s involvement in criminal activities, including orchestrating assassinations and alleged associations with high-profile cases, continues to draw attention and investigative scrutiny.