French Prosecutors: Two Arrested in Louvre Jewel Heist
French authorities have made significant progress in the investigation of a daring heist at the Louvre Museum. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the robbery of France’s crown jewels.
Details of the Louvre Jewel Heist
The arrests occurred shortly after the robbery, which took place last Sunday. Prosecutor Laure Beccuau reported that one suspect was apprehended at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport while preparing to flee the country.
Timeline of Events
- Robbery Date: Last Sunday
- Arrest Date: The day after the heist
- Location: Louvre Museum, Paris
Nature of the Crime
During the robbery, a group of thieves used a furniture-lift truck to gain access to the museum. They sliced through a window of the Galerie d’Apollon and threatened museum guards. Within moments, they smashed two display cases and made off with eight pieces of priceless jewelry on scooters.
Valuation of Stolen Items
The stolen jewels, which have both sentimental and historical importance, are valued at approximately 88 million euros (around $102 million). This figure does not encompass their cultural significance to the French populace.
Investigation and Concerns
Authorities are currently focused on recovering the stolen jewels and identifying all individuals involved. Beccuau emphasized that it is premature to disclose further details about the investigation. Investigators fear that the thieves may attempt to disassemble the jewels for resale.
Official Statements
Beccuau condemned the rapid leak of information to the media, asserting that this could obstruct the investigation’s progress. She expressed hope that the culprits would reconsider any plans to destroy the jewels, emphasizing their worth beyond mere monetary value.
The investigation remains ongoing, with a large police operation dedicated to tracking down the remaining perpetrators of this audacious crime.
