Louvre Heist Suspects Confess to Jewel Theft Involvement

Two suspects involved in the audacious theft of France’s crown jewels from the Louvre have confessed to their roles in the heist. Both men have been placed in custody, as announced by the Paris prosecutor’s office.

Louvre Heist Details

The theft occurred on October 19, when thieves executed a daylight raid on the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery. This heist attracted global attention due to its boldness, with the criminals escaping with jewels valued at approximately 88 million euros ($102 million).

Suspects and Evidence

The two arrested suspects are aged 34 and 39. The younger suspect, of Algerian nationality, has a prior criminal record for traffic offenses. He was identified through DNA found on a scooter at the crime scene.

The older suspect was known to police as an illegal taxi and delivery driver from Aubervilliers, a suburb of Paris. His DNA was discovered on shattered glass from a display case that was burglarized during the heist.

• First Suspect: 34 years old, Algerian nationality, prior traffic offenses.
• Second Suspect: 39 years old, illegal taxi driver, known for aggravated theft.

Investigation and Ongoing Efforts

Paris Prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed that nothing suggests any inside help from museum staff. She stated that both suspects are facing serious charges of robbery carried out by an organized gang, potentially leading to fifteen years in prison and hefty fines.

Over 100 investigators have been involved in the search for additional suspects. They analyzed more than 150 DNA samples and examined various items left at the scene, such as gloves, a helmet, and high-visibility jackets.

One suspect was apprehended at Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to flee to Algeria. He was stopped during a routine passport check.

The Stolen Treasures

The stolen treasures included significant pieces like:

• An emerald necklace with over 1,000 diamonds, gifted by Napoleon.
• A diamond and sapphire jewelry set worn by queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense.

The stolen jewels remain unrecovered, though prosecutors maintain hope that they may eventually be returned to the Louvre and the French nation. Beccuau noted that the jewels would be unsellable, implicating anyone who attempted to buy them in the crime of handling stolen goods.