In a dramatic turn of events, French authorities announced Sunday that arrests have been made in connection with last week’s audacious jewelry heist at the world-renowned Louvre Museum in Paris. The exact number of individuals taken into custody was not immediately disclosed.
The brazen robbery, which involved four perpetrators, saw significant progress as Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed arrests took place Saturday evening. Notably, one suspect was apprehended at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to flee the country.
The fate of the stolen treasures, valued at over $100 million and including exquisite gem-studded royal tiaras, necklaces, and earrings, remains unknown. Authorities have yet to confirm if any of the priceless pieces have been recovered.
This marks a crucial breakthrough in the high-profile case, unfolding just one week after the daylight raid on the Louvre. The incident had previously cast an uncomfortable spotlight on potential security lapses at the globe’s most frequented museum.
Reports of the arrests initially surfaced in French news media, citing anonymous sources, a disclosure that reportedly took authorities by surprise.
“I deeply regret the premature release of this information,” Prosecutor Beccuau expressed in her statement. She emphasized that such leaks could impede the ongoing efforts of approximately 100 investigators dedicated to recovering the stolen jewels and apprehending all involved.
Further details are sparse, as Ms. Beccuau stated it was too early to comment extensively. She assured the public that more information would be released once police questioning of the suspects concludes.
The robbery itself was executed with remarkable speed and precision. The thieves, disguised as workers, utilized a truck-mounted lift elevator to access the second floor. They then used power tools to breach a window, gaining entry to a gallery where they swiftly seized eight precious crown jewels before making their escape on motor scooters, all within a staggering ten minutes.
This is a developing story. Please check back for the latest updates.