High-Stakes Capture: 'Brother Wang' Recaptured in Cuba

A Chinese fugitive, Zhi Dong Zhang, infamously known by the alias 'Brother Wang,' has been recaptured in Cuba after an audacious escape from custody in Mexico. Accused by US authorities of trafficking substantial quantities of cocaine and fentanyl, Zhang had previously evaded capture by breaking out of house arrest in Mexico.

Zhang was initially apprehended in Mexico City in October 2024 following an indictment in Atlanta on drug trafficking and money laundering charges. However, a judge allowed him house arrest, which led to his escape in July 2025, embarrassing Mexican authorities amidst US pressure to curb fentanyl smuggling.

After his escape, Zhang clandestinely travelled to Cuba, subsequently moving to Russia where he was detained for illegal entry and deported back to Cuba. Now, following his recapture, diplomatic discussions are underway to deport Zhang to Mexico, as his case remains a focal point in the global fight against drug trafficking.