13.6C Vancouver 13.6C VancouverJan 23, 2026 3:24 PM - Connect Newsroom - Jasmine Singh with files from The Canadian Press
Former Canadian Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wadding has been arrested in connection with an international drug trafficking operation, U.S. authorities say. Wadding had been living under the protection of Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel prior to his capture.
According to reports, the 44-year-old is accused of running a large-scale drug smuggling network in the United States, moving an estimated 60 metric tons of cocaine annually from Mexico to the Los Angeles area using semi-trucks.
The FBI added Wadding to its 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list in March last year. A $15 million reward was offered for information leading to his arrest.
FBI Director Kash Patel compared Wadding’s criminal activities to those of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar, describing the operation as a serious threat to U.S. and North American security.
Authorities say the arrest highlights how individuals from high-profile backgrounds, including elite athletes, can become involved in organized crime. U.S. officials are now preparing for Wadding’s extradition and court proceedings.
