The FBI recently unveiled a stunning collection of seized property – a breathtaking array of motorcycles valued at $40 million. These aren’t just any bikes; they’re believed to belong to Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder now accused of leading a vast international drug trafficking network.
Wedding, 44, currently holds a chilling position on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. Authorities allege he masterminded a complex operation smuggling cocaine from Colombia, through Mexico and Southern California, ultimately reaching Canada and beyond.
Mexican authorities executed multiple search warrants, uncovering not only the impressive motorcycle collection but also two vehicles, valuable artwork, and even two Olympic medals – stark reminders of a life drastically altered. The seizures occurred across four properties in Mexico City and the surrounding state.
The operation wasn’t a solo effort. The FBI collaborated closely with the Los Angeles Police Department, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and Mexican authorities, demonstrating a unified front against transnational crime. This successful seizure underscores the power of international cooperation.
Details emerging from the investigation paint a disturbing picture. Wedding faces a litany of charges in a Los Angeles federal court, including running a continuing criminal enterprise and, shockingly, murder related to that enterprise.
The accusations have escalated recently, with new charges alleging Wedding ordered the execution of a witness in the federal case. The victim was brutally shot in Colombia earlier this year, a chilling illustration of the lengths to which Wedding allegedly went to protect his operation.
The web of alleged conspiracy extends beyond Wedding himself. Deepak Paradkar, a lawyer from Ontario, was recently granted bail ahead of his extradition hearing, accused of aiding Wedding’s drug trafficking and even advising him to eliminate a witness.
A substantial reward of up to $15 million is being offered by the Department of State for information leading to Wedding’s arrest and conviction. Intelligence suggests he remains in Mexico, potentially under the protection of the notorious Sinaloa cartel, making his capture all the more challenging.
The seized motorcycles, a symbol of extravagant wealth, now stand as evidence in a case that reaches from the Olympic arena to the dark heart of international drug trafficking. They represent a tangible piece of a puzzle authorities are desperately trying to solve.
