UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, Paris Police have arrested two men in connection with the astonishing theft of crown jewels from the Louvre Museum. This urgent announcement comes just a week after the high-profile heist that shocked the world.
Authorities confirmed that the arrests occurred on Saturday evening, July 29, 2023. One suspect was reportedly preparing to flee the country from Roissy Airport. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau stated that investigators from a specialized police unit dedicated to art thefts and burglaries executed the arrests, but did not disclose the number of jewels recovered.
The audacious robbery took place on the morning of July 23, 2023, when thieves executed their plan in less than eight minutes, making off with treasures valued at approximately $102 million. Eyewitnesses reported that the thieves used a basket lift to scale the Louvre’s façade, forced open a window, and smashed several display cases before escaping.
In her statement, Beccuau expressed frustration over leaks of information regarding the investigation, warning that premature disclosures could jeopardize the efforts of over 100 investigators mobilized to recover the stolen jewels. “We will provide further details once the suspects’ custody period concludes,” she added.
The stolen items include a stunning array of historical jewelry, such as a sapphire diadem, necklace, and earring linked to 19th-century queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense. The thieves also took an emerald necklace associated with Empress Marie-Louise, Napoleon Bonaparte’s second wife, and a reliquary brooch. Among the most valuable pieces was Empress Eugénie’s diamond diadem, part of an imperial ensemble of rare craftsmanship. Notably, one piece—a damaged emerald-set imperial crown featuring more than 1,300 diamonds—was later found outside the museum, marking a small victory for investigators.
French officials, including Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, have praised the relentless efforts of the investigation team. Nunez stated, “The investigators who have worked tirelessly, just as I asked them to, have always had my full confidence.”
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to release more information soon. The world watches closely as this high-stakes case develops, with many eager to see justice served for this audacious crime against cultural heritage.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.
