The narrative surrounding Ryan Wedding, a fugitive formerly competing for Canada in the 2002 Olympics, is being framed dramatically by U.S. authorities. Allegations suggest that Wedding has taken on the role of a significant drug trafficker, akin to the notorious Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. However, a Sinaloa cartel operative claims the U.S. is exaggerating Wedding’s influence in the drug trade.
Claims of Exaggeration by Sinaloa Cartel Operative
In an interview with CBC News, the operative expressed skepticism about the portrayal of Wedding as a burgeoning drug kingpin. He emphasized that he had only recently become aware of Wedding through news coverage and social media, stating, “His name has gone viral… they say he’s the new Chapo.”
Despite the claims made by U.S. law enforcement, the operative suggested that the attention surrounding Wedding is inflated. “They are inflating the news… I believe they probably know where he is,” he said, implying that U.S. officials might be waiting for the right moment to act.
Background on Ryan Wedding
- Age: 44
- U.S. Reward: $15 million offered for his capture
- Fugitive Status: Wanted since 2015
- FBI Most-Wanted: Added earlier this year
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has claimed that Wedding leads an operation responsible for smuggling significant quantities of cocaine into the U.S. and Canada. According to Bondi, his organization moved an estimated 60 tonnes of cocaine in just one year into Los Angeles.
Sinaloa Cartel’s Current Landscape
The Sinaloa cartel, having a history of drug dealings with Canadian clients for over 20 years, is currently embroiled in an internal conflict that raises questions about its ability to protect figures like Wedding. The operative mentioned that Wedding’s operation would require substantial local support to manage such large-scale drug movements, which he believes seems improbable for someone from Canada.
Violence and Territorial Conflicts
In July 2024, a kidnapping incident involving Joaquín Guzmán López, El Chapo’s son, escalated existing rivalries within the cartel. This internecine conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displacements across Sinaloa.
Military Presence in Culiacán
As violence surges, the Mexican military has increased its presence in areas like Culiacán. Maj.-Gen. Julices Julián González Calzada, leading the National Guard’s efforts in Sinaloa, indicated that Wedding is not currently on their radar. “I honestly have very little information about him,” he said, addressing the perception of Wedding’s influence in Canada versus the reality on the ground.
The Sinaloa cartel remains entrenched in Canadian drug markets, despite challenges from rival crime groups in the U.S. The operative noted that while drug prices in Canada are higher, the U.S. market is struggling due to rampant theft among criminal organizations.
Conclusion
The portrayal of Ryan Wedding as a major drug kingpin may reflect a strategic narrative rather than an accurate assessment of his role. Current cartel operatives suggest that the realities of the drug trade are far more complex and less certain than what U.S. authorities may suggest.
