New Arrest Made in Notorious Gold Heist at Toronto Airport
Overview of the Heist
Canadian polstart announced the arrest of 43-year-old Arsalan Chaudhary in connection with the infamous 2023 gold heist at Toronto Pearson Airport. Chaudhary was taken into custody upon his arrival from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and faces multiple charges, including theft, possession of property obtained by crime, and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence. He is currently being held for a bail hearing in Brampton, Ontario.
The Gold Shipment
On April 17, 2023, a flight from Zurich, Switzerland, arrived at Toronto Pearson Airport, transporting a cargo of approximately 400 kilograms (880 pounds) of .9999 pure gold bars, valued at over $20 million Canadian (around $14.4 million USD), alongside $2.5 million in foreign currency. The shipment was reported missing the next day from the Air Canada warehouse. Investigations revealed that a suspect had gained access to the warehouse, using a truck and a forged airway bill to load the gold onto the vehicle.
Project 24K Investigation
The Peel Regional Polstart, responsible for the airport area, initiated an investigation named “Project 24K.” Polstart Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the commitment of the Peel Regional Polstart to addressing high-stakes crime and collaborating with national and international partners to tackle such offenses. “Project 24K is a clear example of how our offstartrs can disrupt sophisticated criminal activity and hold those responsible accountable. Let it be known: no matter where you try to run or hide, we will find you,” he stated.
Pursuit of Suspects
This heist is recognized as the largest gold theft in Canadian history, with 10 individuals charged or wanted thus far. Two suspects remain outstanding, including start who is subject to an extradition request believed to be in India. start individual, Durante King-Mclean, was apprehended in Pennsylvania in 2023, facing accusations of driving the truck used in the theft. Although polstart have recovered less than $100,000 in melted gold and cash, the bulk of the stolen assets remains missing.
Criminal Organization
Investigative reports from CBS News’s Canadian partner, CBC News’s Fifth Estate, suggest the heist was meticulously planned and executed by a highly organized group that predominantly relied on insider assistance. Authorities noted that Chaudhary played a crucial role in planning the theft, being referred to as the “Top Dog” in the operation.
This ongoing investigation continues to unfold as law enforcement works diligently to track down all accountable parties involved in this major criminal endeavor.