Overnight arrests have brought the Louvre crown-jewels heist case to a total of seven detainees, with one suspect identified by DNA as part of the robbery team. The Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, mentioned that the latest arrests in Paris and Seine-Saint-Denis could provide crucial information about the theft that occurred at the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery on October 19.
The stolen items, including a diamond-and-emerald necklace gifted by Napoleon Bonaparte and jewels associated with historical figures, are valued at $102 million. Despite the recent arrests, the whereabouts of the stolen loot remain unknown.
The theft has exposed vulnerabilities in the Louvre’s security, prompting a national debate on safeguarding France’s cultural heritage. The incident unfolded in broad daylight, with the thieves breaching the museum’s defenses and fleeing on scooters after a swift operation lasting less than four minutes.
French authorities continue to appeal for the return of the stolen jewels, emphasizing that anyone in possession of the items would be complicit in concealing stolen goods. The investigation remains ongoing, with no evidence yet pointing to insider involvement at the Louvre.