Another individual has been charged by the police in relation to a significant gold heist at Pearson airport in 2023. The accused, identified as 43-year-old Arsalan Chaudhary, was apprehended upon his arrival in Canada from Dubai. Peel Regional Police Insp. Mike Mavity disclosed that Chaudhary had voluntarily surrendered himself upon landing in Toronto, although the specific reasons for his decision remain unclear.
Chaudhary is facing charges of theft exceeding $5,000, two counts of possessing unlawfully acquired property, and conspiracy to commit a serious offense. He was detained for a bail hearing scheduled for Wednesday.
Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies in disrupting complex criminal activities, stating, “Let it be known: no matter where you try to run or hide, we will find you.”
The gold heist, described as the largest in Canadian history, occurred on April 17, 2023, involving a flight from Zurich, Switzerland carrying 400 kilograms of gold valued at over $20 million at the time, alongside approximately $2.5 million in foreign currency. The stolen items were reported missing the following day.
According to authorities, two distinct groups were involved in the crime: Air Canada employees allegedly aiding in the theft, and an external group to which Chaudhary belonged, assisting in the sale and removal of the stolen gold from Canada.
Based on the Crown’s allegations, Chaudhary played a significant role in planning the heist and orchestrating post-offense actions. One suspect referred to him as the mastermind behind the operation.
Following the incident, police conducted a search at Chaudhary’s residence, seizing various items including Canadian currency, cellphones, SIM cards, and documents outlining the allocation of funds towards different assets totaling $9 million.
Authorities also revealed that Chaudhary had extensive communication with other suspects involved in the heist, exchanging calls or messages over 700 times on the day of the crime. Additionally, incriminating messages exchanged post-incident were uncovered, indicating a high level of involvement.
A warrant has been issued for a 27-year-old individual from Brampton, Ontario, linked to the case, who is currently facing firearms trafficking charges in the U.S. Meanwhile, two other suspects from Brampton, one being a former Air Canada employee, remain at large with warrants issued for their arrest.