Nicolas Maduro was seen in handcuffs after landing at a Manhattan helipad on January 5, 2026, in New York City.

A US soldier has been arrested for allegedly profiting over $400,000 from suspicious Polymarket bets surrounding the US-led operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The suspect has been identified as Gannon Ken Van Dyke.

The US Attorney for the Southern District of New York announced on Thursday that Van Dyke is in custody and facing multiple charges, including using confidential government information for personal gain.

Allegations and Indictment Details

According to the indictment, prosecutors allege that Van Dyke was directly involved in the planning and execution of Operation Absolute Resolve, the mission to capture Maduro. In the days leading up to the operation, Van Dyke allegedly made several transactions purchasing $33,934 worth of 'YES' shares on Polymarket, a prediction market platform.

The transactions are alleged to have been based on confidential government information, which Van Dyke is accused of misusing for financial gain.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Van Dyke faces charges including:

  • Using confidential government information for personal gain
  • Securities fraud
  • Wire fraud
  • Conspiracy

The case is being handled by the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. Further details about the legal proceedings are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.

Source: The Verge