Dramatic Arrest at Toronto Airport in Canada’s Record-Breaking $20 Million Gold Heist
Peel Regional Police in Canada have made a significant breakthrough in their ongoing probe into the nation’s largest gold theft, arresting a 43-year-old man upon his arrival at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
The suspect, Arsalan Chaudhary, who has no fixed address, was taken into custody on Monday after disembarking a flight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Authorities charged him with theft over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime (two counts), and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
The case, codenamed Project 24K, centres on the audacious theft of more than $20 million worth of gold bars from the same airport in April 2023. On April 17 that year, a cargo shipment arrived from Zurich, Switzerland, containing approximately 400 kilograms of .9999-pure gold—equivalent to around 6,600 bars—plus $2.5 million in foreign currency. After being offloaded and moved to a separate area on airport grounds, the valuable consignment vanished and was reported missing shortly afterward.
Investigators from Peel Regional Police launched a comprehensive cross-border effort, collaborating with national and international partners, including the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. To date, they have identified ten individuals linked to the crime, resulting in more than 21 charges laid or warrants issued.
Among those already arrested are former Air Canada employee Parmpal Sidhu, 54, from Ontario; Amit Jalota, 40, also from Ontario; Ammad Chaudhary, 43; Ali Raza, 37; and Prasath Paramalingam, 36. Archit Grover was apprehended at Pearson International Airport in May 2024 upon returning from India. Durante King-Mclean, 27, from Brampton, remains in U.S. custody facing firearms trafficking charges.
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Two suspects are still at large, including Simran Preet Panesar, a 33-year-old former Air Canada employee from Brampton, who is believed to be in India. Authorities say Panesar allegedly exploited his access to airline systems to help identify and redirect the targeted cargo shipment. A Canada-wide arrest warrant has been issued for him, with extradition proceedings underway. He was previously traced to a rented flat near Chandigarh.
Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah highlighted the operation’s success in a statement: “This investigation demonstrates the dedication and expertise of Peel Regional Police in tackling complex, high-stakes crime. Project 24K is a clear example of how our officers, working alongside national and international partners, 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.”