Urgent Arrests Made in Louvre Jewel Heist; €87.7M Stolen

BREAKING: Two suspects are now in custody following a brazen jewel heist at the Louvre Museum that took place last Sunday. The arrests were confirmed by the Paris prosecutor’s office just yesterday evening, as authorities intensify their efforts to recover the stolen items worth an estimated €87.7 million.

The daring robbery occurred in broad daylight, with thieves using a crane to access the world-renowned museum. They smashed through an upstairs window, stole eight priceless pieces of jewelry, and fled on motorbikes. Among the stolen treasures was the diamond and emerald encrusted crown of Empress Eugenie, which was later recovered nearby after being dropped by the fleeing suspects.

According to reports from Le Parisien, one of the suspects was apprehended around 10 PM local time at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to board a flight abroad. The second arrest followed shortly in the Paris region. Authorities believe three individuals were involved in the heist, including one who acted as a lookout outside the museum.

The stolen items include a tiara, a necklace, and matching earrings from the collections of Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense, along with an emerald necklace and earrings belonging to Marie-Louise. The jewelry also featured a reliquary brooch adorned with seven diamonds surrounding a solitaire, totaling 94 diamonds. The tiara and large bow corsage, acquired by the museum for €6.72 million, showcased a staggering array of 2,438 diamonds and 196 roses.

Concerns are mounting that the thieves may attempt to melt down these priceless pieces. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the theft, labeling it “an attack on a heritage that we cherish because it is our history.” He assured the public that every effort is being made to recover the stolen works and bring the perpetrators to justice, stating, “Everything is being done, everywhere, to achieve this, under the leadership of the Paris prosecutor’s office.”

The incident has raised alarms about security at the Louvre, with Macron emphasizing the importance of the Louvre New Renaissance project, which aims to bolster security measures. “It will be the guarantor of the preservation and protection of what constitutes our memory and our culture,” he added.

As investigations continue, the public is urged to stay tuned for further updates on the recovery of these invaluable artifacts. The swift actions taken by law enforcement highlight the urgency and gravity of this high-profile crime, capturing the attention of art lovers and security experts alike.

Stay connected for the latest developments on this unfolding story.