In a significant development in one of Canada's most audacious thefts, a suspect linked to the multi-million dollar gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport has been taken into custody. The arrest occurred as the man arrived on a flight from Dubai.
Arrest at the Arrivals Gate
Arsalan Chaudhary, a man with no fixed address, was arrested by Peel Regional Police on Monday, January 12, 2026. The arrest took place shortly after his flight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, landed at Toronto Pearson. Chaudhary now faces charges directly connected to the brazen theft of gold and other valuables from a secure cargo facility at the airport in the spring of 2023.
The heist, which captured national attention, involved the theft of high-value cargo. While the exact total value has been under investigation, it is believed to be in the tens of millions of dollars. The intricate investigation, dubbed "Project 24K" by Peel police, has involved multiple law enforcement agencies and has been ongoing for nearly three years.
International Manhunt Concludes
The arrest of Chaudhary marks a pivotal moment in the cross-border investigation. Authorities have indicated that the suspect had been abroad, with Dubai being a key point of interest. His decision to return to Canada ultimately led to his detention by waiting officers.
Peel Regional Police released a statement confirming the arrest and the laying of charges. They highlighted the complex, international nature of the probe and thanked partner agencies for their collaboration. The arrest demonstrates that despite the time elapsed and the international scope of the crime, the investigation remains active and productive.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Proceedings
While Chaudhary's arrest is a major breakthrough, police emphasize that the investigation is far from over. They are continuing to pursue other individuals believed to be involved in the planning and execution of the heist, as well as the intricate logistics of moving and laundering the stolen goods.
The case underscores the vulnerabilities in cargo security at major international hubs. It has prompted reviews of procedures and sparked discussions about the need for enhanced safeguards for high-value shipments moving through Canadian airports. Arsalan Chaudhary is scheduled to appear in a Brampton court to face the charges against him, as the judicial process begins to unfold.
