🔗 Share this article

A further quartet of persons were taken into custody within the framework of the ongoing investigation into the last month's theft of priceless jewellery at the Paris Louvre, according to the Parisian legal officials.

Particulars of the Most Recent Apprehensions

Two male suspects, in their late thirties, and two women, in their early thirties and forties, were taken into custody this Tuesday. They all reside in the Paris region.

One of those detained is thought to be the last participant of a quartet of thieves that is said to have performed the daytime theft, according to media sources in France. The remaining trio accused perpetrators were previously detained and charged, authorities state.

Police now have as much as 96 hours to interrogate the suspects. No trace has yet been uncovered of the stolen jewels - worth an estimated 88 million euros (76 million pounds; 102 million dollars) - which were stolen on October 19th.

Earlier Charges and Denials

Four individuals have already been indicted in relation to the robbery - three male and one female suspects, who also live in the Paris region.

A woman in her late thirties was charged earlier this month with involvement in organized robbery and illegal conspiracy aimed at perpetrating an offense.

In a distinct case, a 37-year-old male, was indicted for robbery and illegal conspiracy.

Both of these individuals, who remain unnamed in public records, have denied any involvement.

The Way the Theft Was Executed

The heist happened when the group of four men utilized a stolen mechanical lift attached to a vehicle to gain access to the Galerie d'Apollon by means of a balcony adjacent to the Seine.

The thieves utilized a cutting disc to force open exhibition cases housing the jewellery.

The robbers remained within for four minutes and made their escape on a pair of scooters stationed outside at 09:38 in the morning, before changing to vehicles.

One taken artifact - a royal crown - was lost during the getaway but eight other items of jewelry - such as a necklace with emeralds and diamonds that Napoleon I gave his empress, Marie-Louise of Austria - were stolen.

Security Deficiencies and Fallout

Authorities have indicated that the theft was performed by minor lawbreakers rather than organised crime professionals.

Soon following the robbery, it was disclosed by the museum's director that the only camera observing the Galerie d'Apollon was directed away from the balcony the thieves climbed over to break in.

Louvre leadership has since admitted that the museum had failed in its duties, but rejected claims that security was neglected - stating that from the moment of her appointment in the year 2021 she had been consistently alerting of the need for more investment.

Improved Security Measures

Following the event, security measures have been strengthened for French heritage sites.

The Louvre has transferred numerous highly prized jewelry items to the national bank in the aftermath of the robbery.