Christian Aponte, 38 is wanted for his alleged involvement in a theft ring at Pearson airport, Peel Regional Police said Thursday. (HANDOUT)
A member of a highy-organized Colombian theft ring has been arrested after a bag belonging to a New Brunswick currency dealer containing $130,000 in rare gold and silver coins was stolen at Pearson airport.
Peel Regional Police alleged this three-man theft team travel to high-end coin, jewelry and shows featuring valuable items in search of victims.
Sgt. Malcolm Bow, of Peel’s airport criminal investigation bureau, said the suspects spotted the dealer at an upscale coin show that was taking place at a Toronto hotel.
Bow alleged the thieves followed the dealer for several days before moving to steal the coins.
“This group is very, very sophisticated and well-organized,” Bow alleged. “They were following the victim and waiting for the right opportunity to act.”
The small bag was stolen at Pearson as the dealer was “distracted” while checking in for a flight home, he said.
“We were lucky and there were some witnesses,” Bow said. “Through our investigation we were able to identify three suspects.”
He alleged the thieves had removed all the coins by the time police moved in.
The bag was stolen by one ring member, who allegedly passed it to another who took it outside to a man waiting in a car who took off, police said.
Cesar Aperador, 42, of Ajax, has been charged with conspiracy to commit theft over $10,000, theft over $10,000 and possession of stolen property.
He is slated for a bail hearing next week.
Canada-wide warrants have been issued for Oscar Medina-Pinilla, 47, and Christian Aponte, 38. Both may be in the Montreal area, police said.
Officials said the men may have arrived in Canada as refugee claimants and are also entitled to welfare and other benefits.
Anyone with information is asked to call Peel Regional Police at 905-453-3311 ext. 3130.
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