A Fresh Set of Apprehensions Carried Out in Link to Paris Louvre Museum Jewellery Robbery
Four additional suspects were taken into custody in the context of the continuing probe into the last month's heist of priceless gems at the Paris Louvre, according to the Paris prosecutor's office.
Details of the Latest Arrests
A pair of males, aged 38 and 39, and a duo of females, in their early thirties and forties, faced apprehension earlier this week. All are from the greater Paris area.
One of those detained is believed to be the last participant of a group of four that reportedly executed the daylight heist, according to local news outlets. The remaining trio alleged robbers were previously detained and charged, officials say.
Investigators currently possess as much as 96 hours to interrogate the suspects. No trace has so far been found of the stolen jewels - valued at €88m (£76m; $102m) - which were taken on 19 October.
Prior Accusations and Disavowals
Four individuals have already been charged concerning the theft - three men and a woman, who also live in the Parisian area.
A 38-year-old woman was charged earlier this month with involvement in organized robbery and conspiracy to commit crimes with a view to committing a crime.
Additionally, one male suspect, 37 years old, was charged with stealing and conspiratorial activities.
These two suspects, who have not had their identities disclosed, have disavowed any participation.
The Way the Theft Was Executed
The theft took place when the team of four individuals utilized a stolen mechanical lift attached to a vehicle to gain access to the Apollo Gallery through a terrace close to the River Seine.
The men used a circular saw to force open showcases housing the jewellery.
The thieves were inside for just 240 seconds and fled the scene on two scooters waiting outside at 09:38, before transferring to automobiles.
A single pilfered object - a royal crown - was fallen in the flight but eight other items of jewellery - such as a necklace with emeralds and diamonds that Emperor Napoleon presented to his second spouse, Empress Marie-Louise - were appropriated.
Safeguarding Shortcomings and Consequences
Officials have revealed that the theft was performed by minor lawbreakers instead of experienced crime syndicates.
Soon following the robbery, it was disclosed by the museum's director that the single monitoring device observing the Galerie d'Apollon was directed away from the terrace used by the perpetrators to gain entry.
The president of the Louvre has since admitted that the museum had failed in its obligations, but disputed allegations of security being ignored - saying that from the time she took office in the year 2021 she had been consistently alerting of the need for more investment.
Strengthened Safeguarding Protocols
Following the event, security measures have been enhanced at France's cultural institutions.
The museum has moved a selection of its most valuable gems to the French central bank after the theft.
