A 50-year-old Indian-origin businessman in Canada has been arrested and charged with arson with intent to defraud in connection with a fire that destroyed his sports bar last year. Authorities said the blaze reduced the establishment to ashes, prompting a months-long investigation.
The accused, Rajinderpal Basran, owned the sports bar Halftime Huddle in the small town of Leader, Saskatchewan, located near Saskatoon. The incident occurred on October 26, 2025, when emergency services were alerted to a fire at approximately 2:40 a.m. Firefighters later managed to extinguish the flames, but the building had already been completely gutted.
Investigation and evidence
According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, video footage recovered during the investigation allegedly showed a suspect arriving at the premises, breaking in and later leaving in a dark-coloured sport utility vehicle. Officials said the charge of arson with intent to defraud followed the review of surveillance evidence and financial aspects linked to the case.
At the time of the incident, Basran had stated in media interactions that he was not in town when the fire broke out. He described the sports bar as a family effort built over several years and expressed emotional distress over the loss, adding that the safety of his family and employees was his immediate concern rather than financial issues.
Court appearance scheduled
Police confirmed that Basran, who reportedly owns three other businesses in the town, has been formally charged and is scheduled to appear in court on March 19. Legal proceedings are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire and the intent behind the alleged act.
Authorities have not disclosed further details, citing the ongoing judicial process. The case has drawn attention in local business circles, particularly regarding insurance claims and fire safety compliance in commercial establishments.
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