French authorities have made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into one of the most audacious art heists in recent history, arresting four additional suspects.
The Latest Arrests
This morning, two men and two women from the Paris region were taken into custody. These detentions are directly linked to the multi-million-pound robbery that took place at the world-famous Louvre museum on October 19.
The heist, which lasted a mere four minutes during regular public visiting hours, sent shockwaves through France and the international art world. The stolen items are valued at more than £76 million.
Anatomy of a Daylight Robbery
The thieves executed their plan with startling precision. Disguised as workers, they used a device mounted on a truck to access the museum's second floor. Once there, they smashed through a window using power tools.
Squeezing into the opulent Apollo Gallery (Galerie d’Apollon), they targeted reinforced glass display cases. Inside were priceless pieces from the 19th century. The criminals managed to seize eight invaluable jewels, including gem-studded royal tiaras, necklaces, and earrings, before making their escape on waiting scooters.
Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation
Prosecutors have been racing against time, concerned that the unique gems and rare metals might be melted down and sold on the black market, making them virtually untraceable. This fear has added urgency to the investigation.
As a result of the robbery, the Apollo Gallery remains closed to the public, a fact confirmed by the Louvre's official website. The cultural loss is immeasurable, and the hunt for the remaining stolen treasures continues.
