Two men have been arrested in connection with a theft at the Louvre Museum two weeks ago and have partially acknowledged their involvement, according to officials. The suspects are believed to be among those who used power tools to access the Apollon gallery and steal French crown jewels. The items, valued at €88 million, were taken on October 19.
Arrests and Admissions
Officials state that two men, both in their thirties and with prior criminal records, were arrested and have partially admitted their involvement in the Louvre theft. They were identified through DNA evidence found during the investigation. One suspect was apprehended while attempting to board a flight to Algeria. The other suspect, according to Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau, was not planning to leave France, contrary to earlier media reports.
Investigation Details
The men are suspected of being among the individuals who used power tools to gain entry to the museum's Apollon gallery on October 19, in what has been described as a daylight incident. Four individuals were captured on CCTV during the theft. Prosecutor Beccuau stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest the involvement of museum employees or an inside job. However, she indicated that the investigation is not ruling out the possibility of more than four individuals being involved in the incident.
Items Taken and Recovery Efforts
French crown jewels, including the Parure Marie-Amélie diadème, were stolen from the museum. The total value of the items taken is estimated at €88 million (£76 million; $102 million). As of now, the stolen jewels have not been recovered, Beccuau confirmed. A crown that once belonged to Empress Eugenie was dropped by the individuals during their escape, and damage to this item is currently being assessed.
Prosecutor's Comments
On the day of the arrests, Prosecutor Laure Beccuau expressed criticism regarding the "premature disclosure" of information related to the case. She asserted that such disclosures have hindered efforts to recover the stolen jewels and identify all individuals involved.