French authorities have made significant progress in investigating one of the most audacious museum thefts in recent history, with the Paris prosecutor announcing four additional arrests connected to the multi-million dollar jewellery heist at the Louvre Museum.
Latest Developments in the Investigation
On Tuesday, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed that two men and two women between the ages of 31 and 40 have been taken into custody. All four individuals are residents of the Paris region, according to official statements. Police now have the authority to question the suspects for up to 96 hours as they work to determine their exact roles in the sophisticated robbery that occurred on 19 October.
French media outlets have reported intriguing details about one particular suspect. A 39-year-old man from Aubervilliers, already known to law enforcement, is believed to be the fourth direct participant in the daylight robbery operation. This northern Paris suburb has connections to other individuals involved in the case as well.
The Daring Daylight Robbery
The theft itself was executed with military precision that has raised serious questions about security at one of the world's most visited museums. Investigators have determined that the thieves required less than eight minutes to complete their entire operation from entry to exit.
The criminals employed a carefully planned approach, using a freight lift to access a window before breaking into the museum and making their way to the prestigious Apollo Gallery. Security camera footage revealed two suspects using disc cutters to break open display cases while two accomplices waited outside on scooters, ready for a quick escape.
Stolen Treasures and Recovery Efforts
The stolen collection represents an irreplaceable cultural heritage with estimated value of $102 million. Among the missing items is a spectacular diamond-and-emerald necklace that Napoleon Bonaparte gifted to Empress Marie-Louise. The loot also includes precious pieces connected to 19th-century queens Marie-Amelie and Hortense, along with a magnificent pearl-and-diamond tiara that once adorned Empress Eugenie.
In a curious development, one stolen treasure - Empress Eugénie's emerald-set crown featuring more than 1,300 diamonds - was discovered outside the museum after the robbery. However, the majority of the stolen jewels remain missing despite ongoing investigation efforts.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
With these latest arrests, the total number of suspects in custody has increased significantly. The three previously arrested gang members now face preliminary charges of theft by an organised group and criminal conspiracy. Investigators have built their case on solid forensic evidence, including DNA recovered from the crime scene and items connected to the robbery.
Additionally, a woman arrested in October stands accused of providing assistance to the robbery team. As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on locating the stolen jewels and identifying any additional individuals involved in planning or executing this brazen theft that has shocked the international art world.
