Toronto ( Rajeev Sharma): Peel Regional Police have made a major arrest in connection with what is being described as the largest gold theft in Canadian history. Arsalan Chaudhary (43) was arrested early this morning at Toronto Pearson International Airport after arriving on a flight from Dubai.
Chaudhary has been indicted and is scheduled to appear before a Brampton court, facing charges related to the theft of 400 kilograms of gold valued at approximately $20 million, along with $2.5 million in cash.
The incident dates back to April 17, 2023, when a high-value cargo shipment arrived from Switzerland. The theft was reported to Peel Police the following day, launching an extensive investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Police have so far charged 10 residents of the Greater Toronto Area or issued warrants in connection with the case. Those charged include Air Canada employee Parmpal Sidhu (54), jewellery shop owner Ali Raza (37), Amit Jalota (40), and Ammad Chaudhary (43).
Former Air Canada employee Simran Preet Panesar remains at large and is believed to be in India. Canadian authorities have formally submitted an extradition request to Indian officials. An active arrest warrant is also in place for Prasath Paramalingam (36).
In a related development, Durante King-McLean (27) of Brampton has recently pleaded guilty in the United States to charges involving arms trafficking. He is expected to be brought back to Canada to face justice in relation to the gold theft investigation.
Peel Police say the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are possible as authorities continue to track financial flows and international connections linked to the unprecedented heist.
