Cartel Leader Captured In London After Wife’s Social Media Activity Exposes Location

A drug kingpin wanted by the U.S. was arrested in London after his wife’s frequent social media updates inadvertently revealed their whereabouts. Luis Grijalba, accused of running a cocaine smuggling operation from Costa Rica, was apprehended by British authorities after months of online tracking by investigators.

Grijalba’s wife, Estefania McDonald Rodriguez, regularly posted photos of their international vacations, giving authorities critical information about their movements. Pictures taken at famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Trevi Fountain were used by law enforcement to track their travels.

The couple’s arrival in London for the New Year provided the perfect opportunity for authorities to act. British law enforcement arrested Grijalba near London Bridge after a tip-off from American agents who had been monitoring Rodriguez’s posts.

Despite Grijalba’s attempts to stay off the radar, Rodriguez’s online presence made it easier for investigators to piece together their travel patterns. Her Instagram account had over 21,000 followers before it was deleted following the arrest, but her posts had already provided valuable intelligence.

Grijalba, wanted for drug trafficking charges, was previously targeted in violent attacks in Costa Rica, including an incident where several members of his organization were killed. His cartel operations in the port city of Limon have been a significant source of violence in the region.

Following the arrest, extradition proceedings to the U.S. are in progress. Authorities believe his capture could have a significant impact on drug smuggling routes connected to Central America.