🔗 Share this article

A further quartet of individuals were taken into custody within the framework of the continuing probe into the previous robbery of precious jewelry at the Louvre Museum, according to the French judicial authorities.

Particulars of the Newest Apprehensions

A pair of males, 38 and 39 years old, and two female individuals, aged 31 and 40, were arrested on Tuesday. Each hails from the Paris region.

Included in this group is believed to be the last participant of a group of four that reportedly executed the daylight heist, per French media. The remaining trio accused perpetrators are already in custody and formally accused, authorities state.

Law enforcement has been granted up to 96 hours to interrogate the suspects. Zero evidence has so far been found of the stolen jewels - worth an estimated €88m (£76m; $102m) - which disappeared on the nineteenth of October.

Previous Charges and Denials

Four people have already been indicted in relation to the robbery - three men and a woman, who are likewise residents of the Parisian area.

One female, aged 38 was charged earlier this month with involvement in organized robbery and conspiracy to commit crimes intended to carry out unlawful acts.

Additionally, a man, aged 37, was accused of robbery and illegal conspiracy.

Both of these individuals, who have not had their identities disclosed, have disavowed any participation.

The Method of the Robbery Took Place

The theft took place when the team of four individuals employed a hijacked vehicle with a mounted lift to breach the Apollo Gallery via a balcony close to the River Seine.

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

The robbers remained within for just 240 seconds and executed their getaway on a pair of scooters positioned externally at 9:38 AM, before switching to cars.

One taken artifact - a royal crown - was fallen in the flight but eight other items of precious ornaments - including an emerald-and-diamond necklace that was gifted by Napoleon I his second spouse, Marie-Louise of Austria - were taken.

Security Deficiencies and Fallout

Officials have revealed that the theft was performed by minor lawbreakers as opposed to sophisticated criminal organizations.

Soon following the robbery, it was revealed by the Louvre's director that the sole surveillance camera observing the Galerie d'Apollon was directed away from the terrace used by the perpetrators to gain entry.

The museum's president has since admitted that the establishment had not fulfilled in its responsibilities, but rejected claims that security was neglected - saying that from the time she took office in 2021 she had been consistently alerting of the need for more investment.

Improved Safeguarding Protocols

Since the incident, protective protocols have been strengthened for the nation's cultural landmarks.

The museum has moved a selection of its most valuable gems to the Bank of France following the heist.