Canadian prosecutors drop charges in Toronto gold heist case

Canadian prosecutors have withdrawn charges against Amit Jalota and Ali Raza, who were previously accused of involvement in the 2023 Toronto gold heist.

The theft, which took place in April 2023 at Toronto Pearson Airport’s cargo facility, saw more than 6,500 gold bars – valued at C$20 million – and millions of dollars in cash stolen after a fake airway bill was used to gain access to the consignment.

Both men had been charged with possession of stolen gold or currency linked to the robbery. Their lawyers told Canadian media that the defendants have always maintained their innocence and are relieved to move on after three years of legal uncertainty.

Police allege the gold, weighing roughly 400 kg, was removed by a truck after the fraudulent documentation was presented. Earlier this year, another individual received a four‑year sentence for planning the theft, while a separate case in the United States resulted in a 160‑month prison term for firearms trafficking allegedly funded by the heist.

Two further suspects are due to face separate trials later this year on conspiracy to commit theft charges, both of whom have pleaded not guilty.

Source: BBC News. Photo: Martijn Stoof / Pexels.