Simran Preet Panesar, a former Air Canada manager wanted in connection with a $20 million gold heist at Toronto’s Pearson airport in April 2023, is preparing to surrender to Canadian authorities. His lawyer, Greg Lafontaine, informed the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) that Panesar is currently out of the country, although the specific location was not disclosed. Lafontaine stated that he has communicated to authorities that Panesar intends to return voluntarily within the next few weeks.
Lafontaine emphasized Panesar's desire to prove his innocence, stating, “He is anxious to have an opportunity to demonstrate his absolute innocence.” He expressed confidence in the justice system, asserting that Panesar believes he will be cleared of any wrongdoing once the legal proceedings are concluded.
The theft, described as the largest in Canadian history, involved the theft of 6,600 gold bars weighing 400 kg (882 pounds) and C$2.5 million in foreign currency. Authorities had previously arrested six individuals and were seeking three more suspects, including Panesar, who is alleged to have played a role in forging an airway bill to facilitate the heist.
Recently, police announced the arrest and charging of Archit Grover, another individual linked to the gold theft, indicating ongoing developments in the case. Lafontaine’s office declined to provide further comments on the matter.
As the legal process unfolds, Panesar's planned surrender marks a significant development in the high-profile case, which has garnered attention for its audacious nature and the substantial value of the stolen goods involved.
