French authorities have arrested five additional suspects in connection with the daring theft of French crown jewels from the Louvre Museum, intensifying one of France’s most sensational art heist investigations in recent history. Despite the arrests, the priceless treasures remain missing.
Paris Prosecutor Laure Beccuau announced Thursday that the suspects were detained late Wednesday night in Paris and its surrounding region. Their identities have not been released. One of the detainees is believed to be part of the four-person crew that stormed the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery in broad daylight on Oct. 19, escaping with jewels valued at 88 million euros ($102 million).
The heist, which lasted less than eight minutes, stunned France and the global art world. Thieves reportedly forced open a window, cut through glass display cases with power tools, and fled with eight ornate pieces from the historic French crown jewel collection before security could intervene.
Two other members of the robbery team were previously arrested on Sunday and formally charged Wednesday with criminal conspiracy and theft committed by an organized gang. Prosecutor Beccuau said both suspects partially admitted their roles in the crime during questioning.
“Searches last night and overnight did not allow us to find the goods,” Beccuau told RTL radio Thursday morning, confirming that investigators are still working to trace the missing jewels.
The Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most celebrated masterpieces, has not publicly commented on the arrests. Security measures at the institution have reportedly been reviewed and reinforced since the incident.
The heist has revived memories of previous high-profile European art thefts and renewed debate over the vulnerability of even the most secure museums.
Associated Press story
