FBI's Ten Most Wanted: Most Likely In Your Backyard
Oyiza Adaba - Africa-Related, New York
FBI Assistant Director of the Criminal Division Heath R. Janke ar press briefing. Photo: US State Dept
On March 31, 2026, FBI Assistant Director of the Criminal Division Heath R. Janke briefed members of the international press on updates to the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.
He used the opportunity to enlist the help of the global media in the search and capture of these criminals by what he described as “one of the most effective and enduring law enforcement initiatives in American history.”
“Global media coverage has directly contributed to 65 of Ten Most Wanted Fugitive apprehensions and/or locations outside of the United States.”
The Ten Most Wanted Fugitives program is one of the most effective and enduring law enforcement initiatives in American history. Established on March 4th, 1950, it is built on a straightforward but powerful premise: public awareness is one of the most effective tools law enforcement has. By sharing photographs, identifying details, and case information broadly through media, online platforms, and international partners, the FBI dramatically expands its ability to locate dangerous fugitives.
“Many fugitives on this list are believed to have crossed international borders, demonstrating how essential international collaboration has become in the pursuit of justice. ”
FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives is 75 years in 2026
in 2025, the FBI marked the 75th anniversary of one of its most iconic crime-fighting tools, the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. From rapists to criminal masterminds behind the most daring crypto currency fraud, 540 fugitives have appeared on this list since the program began; 501 have been apprehended or located, with a success rate of 93 percent. According to the FBI, a tip from a member of the public made a difference in 163 of these cases.
FBI Ten Most Wanted
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