In a significant development in one of Canada’s most audacious heists, a 36-year-old man of Indian origin, Archit Grover, was arrested on May 6, 2024, in connection with the theft of over 22 million Canadian dollars worth of gold bars and foreign currency. This arrest comes nearly a month after the apprehension of five others linked to the heist that occurred at Pearson International Airport in Toronto.

Details of the Heist:

On April 17, 2023, thieves using forged documents managed to steal an air cargo container loaded with gold and currency from a secure storage facility. The stolen assets had arrived via an Air Canada flight from Zurich, Switzerland. Shortly after landing, the valuables were moved to another location within the airport grounds and were reported missing the next day.

The Arrest and Charges:

Archit Grover was detained by Peels Regional Police as he arrived at Toronto airport from India. Prior to his capture, a Canada-wide warrant had been issued for his arrest. Grover faces charges of theft over 5,000 Canadian dollars and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence. He was held for a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton. Additionally, Grover faces indictment in the U.S. for firearm-related charges.

Background on Other Suspects:

Among those arrested last month were two persons of Indian origin, Parmpal Sidhu and Amit Jalota, along with Ammad Chaudhary, Ali Raza, and Prasath Paramalingam. Further, warrants have been issued for Simran Preet Panesar, a former Air Canada employee implicated in the case, and Arsalan Chaudhary from Mississauga.

Involvement of Air Canada Employees:

According to the police, at least two former employees of Air Canada were allegedly involved in facilitating the heist. One of these employees is currently in custody, while the other is still at large. Air Canada’s spokesperson, Peter Fitzpatrick, confirmed that one of the implicated employees had left the company prior to the arrests, and another had been suspended.

Recovery Efforts and Seizures:

In a statement, police revealed that approximately one kilogram of gold worth about 89,000 Canadian dollars, believed to be part of the stolen loot, along with smelting equipment and 434,000 dollars in Canadian currency, were seized during the investigation.

This case underscores the complexities and challenges in safeguarding valuable assets within major transportation hubs like airports. The involvement of insider employees highlights a significant vulnerability in security protocols. As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a critical reminder of the need for stringent security measures and thorough background checks in sensitive employment areas.

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