Another individual has been formally accused in relation to a significant gold theft at Pearson airport in 2023, as per authorities. The suspect, identified as Arsalan Chaudhary, was apprehended upon his arrival in Canada from Dubai, according to Peel Regional Police Insp. Mike Mavity. Chaudhary had made arrangements to surrender through his legal representatives upon landing in Toronto. The charges against him include theft exceeding $5,000, two counts of possessing unlawfully obtained property, and conspiracy to commit a serious offense. Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the collaborative efforts with international law enforcement in disrupting complex criminal operations. This event has been described as the largest gold heist in Canadian history, with seven other suspects previously arrested in connection to the case.
The incident occurred on April 17, 2023, involving a flight from Zurich, Switzerland carrying a cargo shipment with 400 kilograms of gold valued at over $20 million at the time, along with approximately $2.5 million in foreign currency. The following day, the items were reported missing. Two distinct groups were implicated in the crime, involving Air Canada staff allegedly aiding in the theft and an external group, to which Chaudhary was associated. Investigations suggest that after the gold was taken from Air Canada cargo, Chaudhary played a role in facilitating its sale and removal from Canada.
According to the Crown’s allegations, Chaudhary was significantly involved in planning the theft and orchestrating post-offense activities, as indicated by a suspect referring to him as the primary orchestrator of the heist. Following the incident, authorities conducted a search at Chaudhary’s residence, seizing various items, including Canadian currency, cellphones, SIM cards, and lists detailing asset allocations totaling $9 million. Communication records revealed extensive contact between Chaudhary and other suspects linked to the case, with one exchange showing expressions of excitement and satisfaction regarding the theft. Additionally, a warrant has been issued for a 27-year-old individual from Brampton, Ontario, who is connected to the case and is awaiting sentencing in the U.S. for firearms trafficking-related charges. Police are actively pursuing two other suspects from Brampton, including a former Air Canada employee, who remain at large.