Khaberni - The investigation into the theft that occurred at the Louvre Museum in Paris has seen significant progress, according to Chief Public Prosecutor Laure Becqua during a press conference she held on Wednesday.
Becqua confirmed that the investigation has achieved "notable progress" thanks to an "exceptional mobilization" involving about a hundred detectives. She noted the arrest of two men on Saturday evening; the first, a 34-year-old Algerian, was apprehended at Roissy Airport just before boarding a flight to Algeria. The second, a 39-year-old Frenchman from Oberfleiliye, was arrested near his home and had no plans to leave the country.
The Public Prosecutor clarified that the two men, known to the police for theft and financial crimes, partially admitted to the acts attributed to them during the interrogation.
They were referred to the investigating judges to face formal charges of theft as part of an organized gang, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a significant fine.
Jewels worth millions of euros
Despite progress in the investigation, Becqua revealed that the stolen jewels, valued at approximately 88 million euros, have not yet been found. She said, "The jewels are not in our possession at this moment, but we hope to recover them soon."
She added that these pieces "are not sellable on the market," warning that anyone who buys them would face legal prosecution for possession of stolen goods, and made a public appeal saying, "There is still time to return them."
The search continues for other participants
Becqua confirmed that two other individuals suspected of participating in the theft are still at large, likely having been involved in operating the platform during the operation.
The Chief Public Prosecutor denied any evidence of internal collusion from employees of the Louvre Museum, emphasizing that the investigation will continue "in the utmost secrecy" to preserve its course.
