Investigation Advances as Two Suspects Detained in Louvre Jewelry Heist

One week following the dramatic theft of eight Crown jewels from the Louvre Museum in Paris on October 19, significant progress has been made in the investigation. Two men, both in their thirties and previously known to police for theft-related offenses, are now in custody, according to reports from France 24 and Liberation. The heist was executed swiftly in just seven minutes by four burglars, with two entering the Apollo Gallery wearing yellow vests and using a lift to break a window and access the precious jewels with a disc cutter.

Investigators have collected over 150 DNA samples from the crime scene, providing crucial forensic evidence in identifying the perpetrators. The Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, reassured the public in the Tribune du dimanche that "thieves are always caught," emphasizing the effectiveness of ongoing efforts. He also addressed criticism regarding the Louvre's security, noting that the museum lies within one of the most heavily policed areas in Paris with rapid police response times of approximately three minutes. Nuñez dismissed calls for a dedicated police station within the museum, stating it would not significantly improve security and could lead to similar demands elsewhere.

The Cour des comptes had previously criticized the security measures at the Louvre, intensifying the debate on how to best protect the world’s most visited museum. Nonetheless, law enforcement remains optimistic about the investigation, bolstered by the arrests and forensic discoveries. The two suspects were taken into custody on October 25 as police continue to unravel the network behind the audacious "casse du siècle."

As the case develops, authorities focus on consolidating evidence and pursuing leads, assuring the public that justice will be served and that museum security will remain a top priority to prevent such incidents in the future.