The FBI has added Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre, a Venezuelan national, to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, marking a historic first with the inclusion of a cybercriminal in this notorious ranking. The move comes as authorities investigate Aguirre’s alleged leadership of a sophisticated international conspiracy responsible for stealing millions of dollars from ATMs across the United States. The stolen funds, investigators believe, were funneled to the Tren de Aragua, a powerful and dangerous transnational criminal organization classified as a foreign terrorist organization.
Federal authorities allege that Aguirre, 49, masterminded a complex “jackpotting” scheme that involved installing malicious software on ATMs, forcing them to dispense cash on demand. This illicit activity, which began as early as January 2024, allowed the criminal network to amass a substantial fortune, according to the FBI. The case highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and its potential to finance terrorist activities, prompting a significant escalation in law enforcement efforts.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $1,000,000 for information leading directly to the arrest of Canelon Aguirre. This substantial incentive underscores the seriousness with which the agency views the case and its commitment to bringing the alleged mastermind to justice. The investigation has already resulted in dozens of arrests, but Aguirre remains at large, posing a continued threat.
The ATM Jackpotting Scheme and its Connection to Tren de Aragua
The “jackpotting” scheme employed by Aguirre and his associates involved the deployment of specialized malware onto ATM systems. This malware bypassed standard security protocols, allowing criminals to remotely instruct the machines to eject all their cash. The illicitly obtained funds were then allegedly laundered through a complex network, ultimately reaching Tren de Aragua. According to U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods, “Without the malware, these crimes would not have been possible,” emphasizing Aguirre’s central role in the conspiracy. KETV reports that the scheme involved dozens of individuals across the country.
Tren de Aragua, originating in Venezuela, has expanded its criminal operations throughout Latin America and increasingly into the United States. The organization is known for a wide range of illicit activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and human trafficking. The FBI’s assessment identifies Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization, raising concerns about the potential for the group to employ stolen funds to support further criminal and potentially terrorist activities. The connection between the ATM jackpotting scheme and Tren de Aragua highlights a new and concerning avenue for terrorist financing.
Federal Charges and the Arrest Warrant
A federal arrest warrant was issued for Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre on December 9, 2025, by the District Court of Nebraska in Omaha. The charges against him are extensive and include conspiracy to commit bank fraud, conspiracy to commit bank robbery and intentionally damaging a protected computer system, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists. The FBI’s wanted poster details these charges and provides information for the public to submit tips.
The indictment alleges that Aguirre led a “vast conspiracy to commit cyber attacks against financial institutions in communities across our country on behalf of Tren de Aragua,” according to FBI Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. The operation generated a “multimillion-dollar revenue stream” for the gang, demonstrating the significant financial impact of the scheme. The case underscores the vulnerability of financial institutions to sophisticated cyberattacks and the need for enhanced security measures.
The Significance of the “Ten Most Wanted” Designation
The FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list is a highly publicized and effective tool for capturing dangerous criminals. Established in 1950, the list has led to the apprehension of hundreds of fugitives, including notorious criminals like Al Capone and John Dillinger. The inclusion of Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre on the list signifies the FBI’s prioritization of the case and its belief that the public can play a crucial role in his capture.
Notably, Aguirre is the first cybercriminal to ever be placed on the Ten Most Wanted list. This reflects the evolving nature of crime and the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks. The FBI’s decision to include a cybercriminal on the list signals a shift in focus towards combating cyber threats and holding those responsible for these crimes accountable. Tampa Free Press highlights this historic designation.
What Happens Next?
The FBI continues to actively pursue leads in the case and urges anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre to contact authorities immediately. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the FBI’s website or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests are anticipated as authorities continue to unravel the full extent of the conspiracy.
The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska, with close collaboration from the FBI’s Omaha Field Office and other federal law enforcement agencies. The Department of Justice is committed to disrupting the financial networks of terrorist organizations and bringing those who provide them with support to justice. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for future investigations into cybercrime and terrorist financing.
As of today, March 13, 2026, authorities are continuing their international search for Canelon Aguirre. The FBI has not announced any immediate updates regarding the investigation, but encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any relevant information. The agency is working with international partners to track Aguirre’s movements and prevent him from evading capture.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving threat landscape and the importance of international cooperation in combating cybercrime and terrorism. The FBI’s pursuit of Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre underscores its commitment to protecting the financial system and national security.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre, please contact the FBI immediately. Your tip could be crucial in bringing a dangerous criminal to justice and disrupting a network that supports terrorist activities. Share this article to help spread awareness and assist in the search.
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