NYC-Born Influencer Arrested in Colombia on Arms Trafficking Charges
Authorities discovered firearms, drugs, and cash during an eviction attempt.
A New York City-born content creator, 24-year-old Wendy Durán, has been arrested in Colombia on weapons trafficking charges. The arrest occurred after authorities, attempting to serve an asset seizure warrant for overdue rent, discovered a cache of weapons, drugs, and cash at her residence.
National Police and a judge visited Durán's home in Cali on Monday. During the visit, officers immediately observed two 9mm Glocks on a table in the living room, according to the Attorney General’s Office. Durán stated she did not possess a permit for the firearms.
A subsequent search of her Pance home uncovered a U.S.-made 5.56-caliber Colt rifle concealed in a closet. The rifle was found with a magazine holding 35 rounds, two holographic sights, and a laser attachment. Authorities also seized $4,844 in cash, a money-counting machine, two digital scales, a cell phone, two laptops, and narcotics.
Durán, who holds both U.S. and Colombian citizenship, pleaded not guilty to charges of manufacturing, trafficking, and carrying firearms and ammunition. She remains in custody, and has not yet been charged for drug possession, the type of narcotics found was not specified.
Colombian authorities are continuing their investigation into Durán's potential involvement in other criminal activities and the origin and intended use of the discovered items. Durán is known on Instagram as “sociallywendyy,” where she created content focused on brand expansion. In social media posts from early October, she mentioned relocating from New York City to Colombia to enjoy outdoor activities.