The trial of a former Air Canada Cargo employee accused of involvement in Canada’s largest gold heist has concluded with the Crown presenting its case.
Parmpal Sidhu’s defense lawyer, Shale Wagman, challenged the evidence during the cross-examination of Peel police investigator Det. Sgt. Sarah Angevine. Wagman pointed out discrepancies in the wire tap recordings and highlighted the lack of physical evidence linking Sidhu to the crime.
One crucial piece of evidence discussed was the air waybill used to redirect the gold shipment. While the document bore Sidhu’s employee login, Wagman emphasized the absence of further proof implicating his client in the heist.
Angevine admitted that handwriting analysis was not conducted on the waybill due to insufficient material, and no fingerprints were found. Additionally, the warehouse camera near the printer was non-operational on the day of the theft.
The prosecution alleges that Sidhu colluded with his former supervisor, Simran Preet Panesar, who fled the country and remains a wanted fugitive. Records show a high volume of communication between Sidhu and Panesar on the day of the heist.
Wagman questioned the interpretation of wiretap conversations that hinted at financial struggles and frustrations, suggesting they could pertain to unrelated matters like a previous mischief charge against Sidhu.
Despite no defense witnesses being called, Wagman expressed confidence in a favorable outcome as the trial nears its conclusion. The court will await final submissions from both parties, with the judge expected to deliver a verdict in the coming weeks.
