In a key turn in the stunning Louvre Museum heist, two suspects have admitted to partial involvement in the robbery. The daylight theft, which saw robbers escape with royal jewels valued at more than $102 million, has raised tough questions about security at the famed Paris museum.
What Have the Suspects Admitted?
The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed the partial confessions on Wednesday, October 29. Prosecutor Laure Beccuau announced that the two men have acknowledged some level of involvement in the stunning robbery. While the full details of their admissions remain undisclosed, the development is a significant breakthrough for investigators. Following their confessions, the prosecutor has recommended that the suspects “be held in provisional detention” as the inquiry continues.
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What Was Stolen in the Daring Heist?
The thieves targeted some of the Louvre’s most prized royal artifacts. According to reports, a total of eight items were stolen. The haul included a sapphire diadem, necklace, and earring belonging to 19th-century French queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense. Also taken were an emerald necklace and earrings from Empress Marie-Louise, the second wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. The stolen items also included a reliquary brooch and Empress Eugénie’s large corsage-bow brooch. The robbers’ efficiency was staggering, with the entire operation taking less than ten minutes.
Was Anything Recovered?
Authorities have managed to recover one key item, but in a damaged state. The diamond- and emerald-studded crown of Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, was found near the museum. The crown, which features 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds, was dropped during the getaway. Museum director Laurence des Cars has stated that, despite the damage, the historic crown can be restored.
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How Did the Museum Respond to the Security Failure?
The museum’s director has publicly acknowledged the institution’s failure. In her remarks to French lawmakers, Laurence des Cars confessed, “Despite our hard work and constant vigilance, we failed.” She highlighted “weak camera surveillance” as the main issue, which criminals used to their advantage—raising wider alarms about museum security worldwide.
