Daniel Andreas San Diego: US Fugitive to Face Extradition Hearing
Daniel Andreas San Diego, a fugitive on the FBI’s most wanted terrorist list, is set to appear in a UK court for an extradition hearing later this month. San Diego was apprehended last November in a secluded area of Wales, marking the end of a two-decade-long manhunt following two bombings in San Francisco, California, in 2003.
The 46-year-old was arrested in a covert operation conducted by both the counter-terrorism unit and North Wales Police on November 26. Following his arrest, he was remanded at Belmarsh Prison and attended a Westminster Magistrates’ Court hearing via video link. District Judge Michael Snow has scheduled the full extradition hearing for September 8.
Christopher Wray, the director of the FBI, emphasized the significance of San Diego’s arrest, stating, “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.” His name was placed alongside other notorious figures, including Osama bin Laden, on the Bureau’s wanted list.
Background on the Case
San Diego’s troubles began in August 2003 when two bombs detonated at a biotechnology firm in San Francisco, followed by another explosion at a nutrition company a month later. The FBI contends that these attacks were a part of his activism as an “animal rights extremist.” Notably, he was the first domestic terrorist ever to be added to the FBI’s most wanted terrorist list, categorized as “armed and dangerous.” At that time, there was a substantial reward of $250,000 for information leading to his capture.
The last confirmed sighting of San Diego occurred in 2003, shortly before he vanished from the authorities’ radar in downtown San Francisco. Despite the extensive manhunt, he managed to evade capture for two decades.
The FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorist List
The FBI’s most wanted terrorist list was established in October 2001, shortly after the September 11 attacks. It aimed to spotlight individuals who pose significant threats to national security. Initially containing 22 people, the list has evolved over the years, with 24 individuals currently recognized. The introduction of this list by then-President George W. Bush marked a commitment to bringing terrorists to justice, declaring, “Terrorism has a face, and today we expose it for the world to see.”
Notable Members of the FBI Most Wanted Terrorist List
| Name | Notoriety | Year Added |
|---|---|---|
| Osama bin Laden | Mastermind of 9/11 | 2001 |
| Joanne Chesimard | Convicted Killer | 2013 |
| Daniel Andreas San Diego | Domestic Terrorist | 2003 |
As San Diego awaits his extradition hearing, authorities are reaffirming their commitment to justice, reminding the public that fugitives, no matter how elusive, can ultimately be apprehended.
