17 Charged in Alleged Cyber Theft and Key Arrest of Cyber Fugitive

Iranians Charged in Cyber Theft

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged 17 Iranian nationals for allegedly conducting a major cyber theft campaign. This campaign reportedly targeted American universities and government agencies. According to DOJ details, the hackers compromised networks to steal intellectual property since 2013.

Tren de Aragua Leader Captured

Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre, allegedly leading Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua group, was returned to U.S. soil after his capture overseas last month. Known as “Prometheus” and “The Engineer,” Aguirre appears in a Nebraska courtroom to face charges related to a multimillion-dollar ATM “jackpotting” scheme.

FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted Aguirre’s return as a significant success, marking him as the 10th Ten Most Wanted fugitive captured since the Trump administration’s start. Aguirre is the first cyber fugitive included on this list.

ATM Jackpotting Scheme

The FBI has identified Aguirre’s role in a large-scale international conspiracy to steal millions from financial institutions through ATM jackpotting. Since 2024, this scheme has reportedly supported the Tren de Aragua, which the U.S. considers a foreign terrorist organization.

ATM jackpotting involves using malware or other tactics to force ATMs to dispense cash illicitly. Prosecutors allege Canelon Aguirre developed the malicious software integral to this conspiracy.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Aguirre has pleaded not guilty to four federal conspiracy charges during his court appearance. As he remains detained in Nebraska, he awaits trial facing charges of bank fraud, bank burglary, computer fraud, money laundering, and providing material support to terrorists.

The most severe charge, bank fraud conspiracy, can result in up to 30 years in prison.

“Now he’s back in the United States to face justice,” Patel stated. “This FBI is running on supercharged horsepower,” emphasizing their global reach.

Ongoing Efforts Against Cybercrime

Attorney General Todd Blanche noted efforts to dismantle networks linked to narcoterrorism and prosecute related crimes. The DOJ has charged nearly 350 alleged members and associates of the Tren de Aragua since its designation as a foreign terrorist organization.

Aguirre’s arrest is credited to the Homeland Security Task Force and Joint Task Force Vulcan. Blanche assures continued endeavors to safeguard American communities and pursue justice against violent criminals.