The audacious theft at the Louvre Museum has deepened, with Paris prosecutors announcing charges against two more individuals, swelling the number of suspects to four. The brazen heist, unfolding in broad daylight on October 19th, saw a team of four penetrate the iconic Apollo Gallery and vanish with jewels estimated at a staggering 88 million euros.
The entire operation lasted less than eight minutes, a meticulously planned assault on one of the world’s most heavily guarded cultural institutions. Investigators are now piecing together the network of individuals involved, focusing on those who allegedly aided and abetted the core group of thieves.
A 38-year-old woman, residing in the Paris suburb of La Courneuve, is facing charges of complicity in organized theft and criminal conspiracy. Simultaneously, a 37-year-old man has been charged with theft and conspiracy, both vehemently denying any participation in the crime.
A judge has ordered both new suspects to remain in custody, citing fears of potential collusion and the risk of evidence tampering. The investigation is proceeding with urgency, recognizing the gravity of the loss and the potential for further obstruction.
The 37-year-old man is no stranger to law enforcement, with a prior record of robberies. This history has heightened concerns about his potential involvement and the possibility of connections to other criminal elements.
Earlier arrests revealed a desperate attempt to flee the country. A 34-year-old Algerian national, a resident of France since 2010, was intercepted at Charles de Gaulle Airport, attempting to board a one-way flight to Algeria.
DNA evidence is proving crucial to the investigation. Investigators discovered the 34-year-old’s DNA on a scooter believed to have been used in the escape, solidifying the case against him. He had a prior record of traffic offenses, but this marks a significant escalation in alleged criminal activity.
The second suspect previously arrested, a 39-year-old man also from Aubervilliers, has a history of multiple thefts. His DNA was reportedly found on a glass display case that once housed the stolen jewels, along with other items left at the scene, further linking him to the crime.
The Louvre remains a focal point of the investigation, with authorities meticulously examining every detail to recover the stolen jewels and bring all those responsible to justice. The case continues to unfold, revealing a complex web of planning and execution behind this daring act.
