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PARIS — Authorities have arrested two men in connection with the Louvre Museum Jewel Heist, a daring theft that stunned the art world and triggered a week-long international manhunt.
According to Paris prosecutors, investigators captured one suspect at Charles de Gaulle Airport on Saturday night as he attempted to flee to Algeria. A second suspect, also in his 30s and previously known to police, was detained in a separate operation.
DNA evidence leads to breakthrough
Prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed the arrests but did not disclose if any of the stolen crown jewels were recovered. A police official revealed that DNA traces helped identify one suspect. Forensic experts analyzed over 150 samples from the crime scene, accelerating the investigation.
Beccuau noted that a special police unit specializing in armed robberies and art thefts led the operation. She condemned leaks about the case, warning that early disclosures could jeopardize ongoing efforts involving more than 100 investigators.
Daring heist in under eight minutes
The Louvre Museum Jewel Heist occurred last Sunday morning, when thieves scaled the museum’s facade using a basket lift. They forced open a window, smashed display cases, and escaped in less than eight minutes with jewels valued at €88 million ($102 million).
Among the stolen treasures were priceless relics once owned by France’s royal and imperial families, including Empress Marie-Louise’s emerald set and Empress Eugenie’s diamond diadem. One piece — Eugenie’s emerald crown with over 1,300 diamonds — was later found near the museum, damaged but repairable.
Global outrage and cultural loss
The theft, described by the museum’s director as a “terrible failure,” shocked visitors and heritage experts. Many compared it to the 2019 Notre Dame fire for its emotional and cultural impact.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez praised investigators for their relentless work. “They acted with precision and speed,” he said, expressing confidence that the rest of the jewels will soon be recovered.
Visitors at the Louvre on Sunday welcomed news of the arrests. “It’s a relief,” said Parisian Freddy Jacquemet. “Now we just hope the jewels come home.”
