Peel Regional Police have apprehended a 43-year-old man suspected in the largest gold heist in Canadian history upon his arrival at Toronto Pearson International Airport from Dubai.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in Project 24K, an ongoing probe into the April 2023 robbery of over $20 million worth of gold bars and $2.5 million in foreign currency from a cargo facility at Pearson.
The individual in question, identified as Arsalan Chaudhary, was detained on Jan. 12 upon landing from an overseas flight. Chaudhary faces multiple charges, including theft exceeding $5,000, two counts of possessing unlawfully obtained property, and conspiracy to commit a serious offense. He has been detained pending a bail hearing.
The original incident took place on April 17, 2023, following the arrival of a flight from Zurich that transported around 400 kilograms of .9999-pure gold, equating to 6,600 bars, alongside a substantial sum of foreign currency. The cargo was unloaded and relocated within the airport premises but was reported missing the subsequent day.
Law enforcement has brought forth over 21 charges in connection to the case, implicating 10 individuals linked to the theft. Some of the suspects have affiliations with Air Canada and international arms trafficking.
While authorities continue their search, two suspects are still at large. Simran Preet Panesar, a former Air Canada staff member aged 33 from Brampton, is believed to be in India. A nationwide warrant has been initiated, accompanied by an extradition plea, with charges of theft exceeding $5,000 and conspiracy to commit a severe crime against Panesar.
Additionally, Prasath Paramalingam, a 36-year-old resident of Brampton, is facing a bench warrant for failing to appear in court in August 2024.
Durante King-Mclean, a 27-year-old from Brampton who is presently in the U.S., has admitted guilt in firearms trafficking charges. Authorities are pursuing King-Mclean for theft exceeding $5,000 and possession of unlawfully acquired property in Canada. Investigators maintain communication with King-Mclean and his legal representatives.
Peel Regional Police emphasize that the investigation is ongoing and urge individuals with relevant information to come forward.