FBI’s 10 Most Wanted List Includes Cybercrime Suspects for First Time
In a notable shift after more than 75 years, the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list is now including individuals linked to cybercrime, reflecting the changing nature of modern threats. The agency suggests that today’s biggest dangers aren’t solely about armed violence; they’re increasingly intertwined with technology and malware.
One of the new entries is Anibal Aguirre, known by the alias “Prometheus,” who has been labeled as the alleged brain behind a large-scale ATM “Jackpot” scheme. This operation reportedly manipulated ATMs across the United States into dispensing cash, thanks to custom malware.
Authorities emphasize that this case is not merely about technological heists.
Federal prosecutors allege that proceeds from this scheme funneled millions into the Torren de Aragua (TdA), a violent transnational criminal group based in Venezuela, which U.S. officials categorically designate as a terrorist organization.
“The individuals on the FBI’s Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list are among the most dangerous criminals, closely monitored by the FBI,” stated FBI Director Kash Patel. He remarked on the 10 Most Wanted Fugitives program’s historical significance as a crucial tool for capturing dangerous offenders.
Patel underscored the organization’s responsiveness to community concerns. “By disseminating information about these fugitives, we can significantly broaden our investigative scope,” he asserted. “If you engage in violent crime or target the innocent, we will relentlessly pursue you. With public help, we’ll find you.”
The Nebraska District Attorney’s Office has indicted 93 individuals linked to this broader conspiracy, with millions drained from ATMs nationwide, according to authorities. U.S. Attorney Leslie Woods stated that investigators are tracing the funds back to what she termed “the roots of terrorism in Venezuela.”
During the investigation, claims emerged that the stolen funds intended to support TdA leaders, facilitating their terrorist activities. Woods noted the operation’s expansive nature, stating it involved a substantial collaboration between various law enforcement levels.
“For TdA members, there’s no safe haven in Nebraska,” she asserted.
Eugene Cowell, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Omaha Field Office, pointed out that TdA poses a direct threat to communities across the Midwest and beyond. The organization exploits both cyberattacks and other criminal activities to finance its violent endeavors.
In a sign of the evolving criminal landscape, Cowell stated, “As criminal enterprises adapt, we will enhance our resources and strategies to safeguard the public.”
Homeland Security Investigations’ Special Agent Mark Zito described TdA as “a ruthless terrorist organization that preys upon communities, instilling fear, and funding violence across borders.” He added, “We will not accept foreign terrorists stealing from our citizens and jeopardizing our homeland; we’re committed to tracking them down.”
The introduction of Aguirre to the FBI’s Most Wanted list illustrates the agency’s recognition of digital financial crime as a growing threat. There’s an ongoing belief that Aguirre may currently be operating in Venezuela.
Officials hope that highlighting Aguirre’s status will garner international intelligence and put additional pressure on the network behind these crimes. If anyone has information about his whereabouts, they are encouraged to reach out to the FBI.
