New Arrest in Canada's Largest Gold Heist — Arsalan Chaudhary Taken Into Custody at Toronto Pearson

Canadian police announced a new arrest Monday in the high-profile April 2023 theft at Toronto Pearson Airport that saw millions of dollars' worth of gold bars and currency vanish from an Air Canada warehouse.

Officers detained 43-year-old Arsalan Chaudhary as he arrived on a flight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Peel Regional Police said Chaudhary has been charged with theft, two counts of possession of property obtained by crime, and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence. He was held for a bail hearing in Brampton, in the Greater Toronto Area.

The stolen shipment arrived at Toronto Pearson on April 17, 2023, on a flight from Zurich, Switzerland. It included roughly 400 kilograms (about 880 pounds) of .9999-purity gold bars—valued at more than $20 million Canadian—and about $2.5 million Canadian in foreign currency. The cargo was reported missing the next day from the airport's Air Canada warehouse.

Investigators say the theft was executed after a suspect arrived at the warehouse with a truck and a forged airway bill, loaded the gold and drove away. Peel Regional Police launched an inquiry named "Project 24K." Police say the episode is the largest gold heist in Canadian history.

"This investigation demonstrates the dedication and expertise of Peel Regional Police in tackling complex, high-stakes crime," Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah said. "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."

Authorities say 10 people have now been charged or are wanted in connection with the theft, while two suspects remain outstanding, including one believed to be in India and the subject of an extradition request. One previously arrested suspect, Durante King-Mclean, was taken into custody in Pennsylvania in 2023 and is accused of driving the truck used in the theft.

So far investigators have recovered less than $100,000 in melted gold and a small amount of cash. A CBC News Fifth Estate investigation reported that documents suggest the heist was planned and executed by a highly organized group that relied heavily on an insider. Police told reporters Chaudhary was "the most involved in the planning of the theft," describing him as the operation's "Top Dog."

Peel Regional Police continue to work with national and international partners as the investigation advances and more arrests or charges are possible.