High-Value Violent Jewelry Thefts Spark Police Action in France
Two recent violent jewelry thefts in France—the 88 million euro Louvre heist and a Marseille burglary targeting a retired jeweler couple—are under intense police investigation.
- • Louvre museum theft on October 19 involved jewels worth over 88 million euros with two suspects arrested near Paris.
- • Jewelry stolen from retired jeweler couple in Marseille valued at over 500,000 euros following a violent home invasion.
- • Marseille victims were an elderly couple aged 86 and 95, attacked by masked assailants pretending to be aid workers.
- • Investigations continue with Paris prosecutor scheduled to update on Louvre case; Marseille case assigned to territorial crime division.
Key details
France is grappling with two recent high-profile violent jewelry thefts, each drawing law enforcement focus and public concern. The first is the spectacular robbery at the Louvre Museum on October 19, the world’s most visited museum, where thieves stole jewels estimated at over 88 million euros. Two men suspected to be part of a four-person commando were arrested on October 25 near Paris, and their custody ended on October 29, potentially leading to their formal indictment. Despite arrests, the precious jewels have yet to be recovered. Paris Prosecutor Laure Beccuau has scheduled a press conference to update the public on the investigation’s progress.
In a separate but equally distressing incident on October 24 in Marseille’s 8th arrondissement, an elderly retired jeweler couple, aged 86 and 95, was violently targeted in their home. Two masked individuals, posing as aid workers from a support network, forced entry and assaulted the couple, resulting in one victim’s hospitalization. The burglars ransacked the home and stole jewelry and watches valued at more than 500,000 euros. Authorities in Marseille have launched an investigation for aggravated theft, with the case assigned to the territorial crime division. As of now, the perpetrators remain at large.
These incidents highlight the ongoing security challenges involving valuable jewelry in France, with both the Louvre heist and the Marseille burglary involving violent crimes against individuals and institutions. The investigations remain active, and further developments are anticipated as authorities continue their efforts to bring the criminals to justice and recover stolen items.
According to Liberation, the Louvre robbery case continues to unfold with high public interest, with the Paris prosecutor emphasizing forthcoming details at the judicial tribunal. Le Figaro reported on the Marseille burglary’s brutality and significant loss, underscoring the vulnerability of even retired experts in this field to violent crime.