Global Efforts Finally Capture Elusive Terrorist After 20 Years on the Run

Animal rights extremist Daniel Andreas San Diego, on the run for over two decades, has been captured in Wales, ending a long-standing FBI manhunt.

At a Glance

Daniel Andreas San Diego, wanted for 2003 bombings in California, arrested in Wales after 20 years.
San Diego was the first domestic terrorist on the FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorists list.
Bombings targeted companies linked to animal testing, causing property damage but no injuries.
International collaboration led to San Diego’s arrest, demonstrating persistent commitment to justice.

Domestic Terrorist Caught After Two Decades on the Run

In a significant breakthrough for law enforcement, Daniel Andreas San Diego, a 46-year-old animal rights extremist and one of America’s most wanted fugitives, has been apprehended in Wales after evading capture for over 20 years. San Diego, who was added to the FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorists list in 2009, was sought in connection with two bombings that targeted San Francisco-area businesses in 2003.

The arrest, carried out by North Wales Police in collaboration with the National Crime Agency and the U.K.’s Counter Terrorism Police, marks the end of an extensive international manhunt. San Diego’s capture underscores the unwavering dedication of law enforcement agencies to bring suspected terrorists to justice, regardless of the time elapsed since their alleged crimes.

Animal rights activist Daniel Andreas San Diego on FBI’s terrorism list captured in U.K. https://t.co/9PZqAklgF8 pic.twitter.com/VMRM9FESVY

— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 27, 2024

The 2003 Bombings: A Tale of Extremism

San Diego was wanted for his alleged involvement in two separate bombings that occurred in 2003. The first attack targeted Chiron Corporation in Emeryville, California, while the second struck Shaklee Corporation in Pleasanton. Both companies were singled out due to their perceived connections to animal testing, a practice vehemently opposed by San Diego.

The bombings, while causing substantial property damage, fortunately, resulted in no injuries. However, the intent behind the attacks was far more sinister. The FBI revealed that at Chiron, a second bomb was set to detonate an hour after the initial blast, potentially targeting first responders arriving at the scene.

A Vegan Fugitive with International Connections

Prior to his life as a fugitive, San Diego worked for an animal rights organization called In Defense of Animals and attempted to start a vegan bakery. Described as a vegan and computer network specialist, San Diego’s extremist views allegedly led him to resort to violence to further his cause.

“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.” – FBI Director Christopher Wray

The FBI believed San Diego had ties to an international network of animal-rights extremists, which may have aided his ability to evade capture for so long. Initially, authorities suspected he might have fled to Costa Rica, but his ultimate discovery in Wales highlights the global nature of this manhunt.

Justice Served: The Road Ahead

With San Diego’s capture, the focus now shifts to the legal proceedings that lie ahead. He faces extradition to the United States and has already appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court in London for initial extradition proceedings. The charges against him stem from a July 2004 indictment by the United States District Court, Northern District of California.

“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.” – FBI Director Christopher Wray

The arrest of Daniel Andreas San Diego serves as a stark reminder of the long arm of the law and the persistence of law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice. It also underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and bringing fugitives to account, no matter how long they may have evaded capture.