Chandigarh (National Times): A 32-year-old former Air Canada manager, Simran Preet Panesar, who is wanted by Canadian authorities in connection with Canada’s largest gold heist, has been tracked down to Chandigarh, according to a report by The Indian Express.
The Rs 173 Crore Gold Heist
The high-profile theft took place in April 2023 at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport, where 6,600 gold bars weighing 400 kg, along with Rs 21 crore ($2.5 million) in foreign currency, were stolen from the airport’s cargo compound. The total value of the stolen goods is estimated at Rs 173 crore ($20 million), making it the biggest gold heist in Canada’s history.
At the time of the incident, Panesar was residing in Brampton, Ontario. Notably, he had led police on a tour of the airport’s cargo facility before becoming a suspect in the case. Despite speculation that he might surrender, he has not done so yet.
Panesar’s Life in Chandigarh
The report states that Panesar is currently living on the outskirts of Chandigarh with his wife, Preety, in a rented accommodation. When approached for a statement, he refused to comment, citing legal concerns and his family’s safety. His lawyer in Canada has also been contacted regarding his potential surrender.
Extensive Investigation Underway
The Peel Regional Police has been conducting a detailed investigation into the heist, involving 20 officers who have collectively worked for over 28,096 hours, including 9,500 overtime hours.
Authorities have used various investigative methods, including video surveillance, interviews, and tracking the stolen gold’s movement. The video analysis alone spanned four weeks, covering 28 kilometers and three jurisdictions in an attempt to trace the truck used in the heist.
Nine Suspects Identified
Panesar is one of nine suspects linked to the crime, including another Air Canada employee, Parampal Sidhu, who police believe was also involved in the operation.
Legal Proceedings and Uncertainty
Despite being wanted by Canadian authorities, Panesar remains in India, with no official word on whether he plans to cooperate with investigators. However, his lawyer has been in contact with the Peel Regional Police, keeping the case under legal review.
As the probe continues, Canadian authorities are working to apprehend the suspects and recover the stolen gold.
