French authorities are unraveling the details of a breathtaking jewel heist at the Louvre, where thieves made off with a staggering US$102 million in jewels. Arrests have been made and investigations are underway to locate the missing pieces.
Details of the Heist
This audacious theft occurred in broad daylight, with thieves using power tools to execute the job in just seven minutes. The raid took place last month, leaving the world’s most visited museum shocked and the authorities scrambling for answers.
Suspects Arrested
- A 38-year-old woman has been charged with complicity in organised theft and criminal conspiracy.
- Seven suspects have been detained, with two previously arrested men charged after partially admitting to the crime.
- One of the men, a 34-year-old Algerian, was identified through DNA found on a getaway scooter.
- The second, a 39-year-old unlicensed taxi driver, was apprehended near his home.
- Despite the arrests, the stolen jewels remain unaccounted for, though a diamond- and emerald-studded crown was dropped during the escape.
Legal Reactions
Defence lawyer Sofia Bougrine has spoken out against the arrests, describing them as “drift nets” that ensnare individuals without clear evidence. Among the latest arrests, one suspect was released without charge, highlighting complexities in the ongoing investigation.
What Next?
As the investigation continues, authorities are under pressure to recover the prized items, including a diadem belonging to Empress Eugenie and an emerald-and-diamond necklace gifted by Napoleon I to Empress Marie-Louise.