Chandigarh, Feb 21: On Friday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at the Mohali residence of Simran Preet Panesar, a man in his thirties, who is linked to Canada’s largest gold heist, valued at over USD 20 million, as reported by official sources.
Attempts to reach Panesar for comment on the allegations were unsuccessful.
The ED has initiated a criminal investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to look into the gold theft that occurred at Pearson International Airport in April 2023.
The agency is searching Panesar’s premises in Mohali, Punjab, and intends to interrogate him during this inquiry, according to sources.
This investigation was opened by the ED on its own accord, as the PMLA permits action in situations involving cross-border implications involving Indian nationals.
The primary objective of the inquiry is to determine whether the alleged proceeds from this crime have been transferred to India and if there are any beneficiaries within the country.
Media reports indicate that a cargo container containing gold bars was stolen from a secure storage area at the airport in 2023, reportedly using forged documents. (PTI)
