Daniel Andreas San Diego, one of the FBI’s most wanted terror suspects, was apprehended in Wales after evading capture for over two decades. The arrest was announced Tuesday by U.S. authorities in coordination with U.K. law enforcement.
Arrest in Wales
San Diego, wanted in connection with two animal rights-related bombings in Northern California in 2003, was arrested in Conwy, a town near Wales’ northern coast. Officers from the U.K. National Crime Agency’s Joint International Crime Center apprehended him at a rural property near a woodland.
FBI Statement
FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the agency’s commitment to pursuing fugitives regardless of time:
“Daniel San Diego’s arrest after more than 20 years as a fugitive for two bombings in the San Francisco area shows that no matter how long it takes, the FBI will find you and hold you accountable. There’s a right way and a wrong way to express your views in our country, and turning to violence and destruction of property is not the right way.
Alleged Crimes
San Diego was added to the FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorists list in 2009 for his alleged involvement in two bombing incidents:
- August 2003: Two bombs were planted at Chiron Inc. offices in Emeryville, California. The first detonated early in the morning. The second device, which may have been intended to target first responders, was discovered and defused before it could explode.
- September 2003: A bomb wrapped in nails was detonated at a company in Pleasanton, California. While the explosion caused property damage, no injuries were reported.
San Diego, who allegedly had ties to animal rights extremist groups, was charged in 2004 with two counts of destroying or attempting to destroy property with explosives and two counts of using a destructive device in a crime of violence.
Fugitive for Over 20 Years
A federal arrest warrant was issued in October 2003, but San Diego vanished before he could be detained. He remained at large for over 20 years, with the FBI warning that he was considered armed and dangerous during his time on the run.
Extradition Proceedings
San Diego made his first court appearance on Tuesday in the U.K. as extradition proceedings to return him to the United States commenced. He has been ordered to remain in custody during the legal process.
The arrest marks the culmination of a global manhunt and highlights the continued efforts of law enforcement agencies to bring long-sought fugitives to justice. Further updates on his extradition and trial are expected in the coming weeks.
