Five new suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the Louvre robbery in Paris, in which thieves stole crown jewels valued at around €88 million (£76 million). Authorities confirmed that, so far, the stolen items have not been recovered.
Arrests Made Across Paris and Surrounding Areas
According to the public prosecutor, the arrests occurred on Wednesday night in Paris and nearby Seine-Saint-Denis. While the detainees could provide insight into how the theft was executed, they did not directly lead police to the missing crown jewels.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWwXstdlLA0
“One suspect was already under investigation, with DNA evidence linking him to the robbery,” prosecutors said, while the other four could assist in reconstructing the heist.
Background on the Heist
The audacious heist took place on 19 October at the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most visited cultural sites. A gang of four criminals arrived in a stolen furniture removal truck equipped with an extending ladder. Two of the thieves climbed into the Apollo Gallery, wearing high-visibility vests to resemble maintenance workers.
Inside, they smashed a window and cut open two glass display cases, grabbing eight gem-encrusted treasures, including:
- An emerald and diamond necklace gifted by Napoleon I to Marie Louise
- A diadem adorned with 212 pearls and nearly 2,000 diamonds once owned by Empress Eugénie
The heist lasted under seven minutes, with the gallery intruders inside for just under four minutes before fleeing on motorbikes.
Previous Arrests and Suspects
Earlier arrests included two men who partially admitted their role. DNA evidence linked them to a display case and a getaway scooter. One suspect, a 34-year-old Algerian national, had prior traffic offenses, while the second, a 39-year-old from Aubervilliers, had prior burglary convictions. Authorities have not yet confirmed if more gang members were involved or if the theft had inside assistance.
Investigation Continues
Despite multiple arrests, the crown jewels remain missing, and authorities continue to investigate the Louvre robbery in Paris, questioning suspects and reviewing forensic evidence to trace the stolen treasures.
