US Border Patrol captures Russian mercenary carrying drone, 2 passports and $4K
A Russian mercenary was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Roma, Texas after illegally crossing the U.S. border earlier this month. Timur Praliev was found with two passports and $4,000 in cash when he was captured on January 4, 2025.
According to reports from ValleyCentral.com in Harlingen, Texas, Praliev, who claimed to be a citizen of Kazakhstan, was taken into custody after he admitted to unlawfully entering the U.S. at a location not designated by immigration officers. During his court appearance last Tuesday, Praliev pleaded guilty to the charges.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan revealed in court that Praliev was also found in possession of a drone in his backpack and confessed to being a member of the infamous Wagner Group. This private military company has been designated as a significant transnational criminal organization by the U.S. Department of Treasury in 2023, leading to sanctions against the group and its affiliated network worldwide.
The Wagner Group, known for its involvement in conflicts in the Middle East, Africa, Venezuela, and Ukraine, has been a thorn in the side of U.S. policymakers for years. With approximately 50,000 personnel deployed in Ukraine, including contractors and convicts, the group has been a key player in the ongoing conflict in the region.
Despite facing imprisonment and a hefty fine, Praliev remained stoic during his court appearance, simply responding with \”Nyet\” when asked if he had anything to say. The case is now being investigated by the FBI and other agencies to determine the extent of Praliev’s ties to the Wagner Group and any potential threats he may pose to national security.
The capture of Timur Praliev serves as a stark reminder of the complex web of international conflicts and security threats that the U.S. faces on its borders. As tensions continue to rise in regions where groups like the Wagner Group operate, it is crucial for law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and neutralizing potential threats to national security.
