Suspects Arrested in Louvre Jewel Heist Valued at $102 Million

UPDATE: Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the audacious jewel heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, where thieves stole items valued at an astounding €88 million ($102 million). Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed the arrests occurred on October 22, 2025, just days after the theft that shocked the world and left many questioning security at the globe’s most-visited museum.

The arrests took place at Charles de Gaulle Airport, where one suspect was reportedly attempting to flee the country. While Beccuau did not confirm the number of arrests or whether any stolen jewels had been recovered, she emphasized the ongoing efforts of over 100 investigators dedicated to this high-profile case.

The heist, which unfolded in less than eight minutes on October 19, 2025, involved thieves using a basket lift to access the museum’s facade, breaking in through a window, and smashing display cases to escape with priceless artifacts. The museum’s director has described the incident as a “terrible failure,” raising serious concerns about security measures.

Amidst the chaos, French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez praised the dedication of the investigative team. “They have worked tirelessly,” he stated, affirming strong confidence in their abilities to recover the stolen treasures.

The stolen items included parts of France’s Crown Jewels, such as a sapphire diadem, a necklace, and a single earring associated with 19th-century queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense. Also taken were an emerald necklace and earrings linked to Empress Marie-Louise, along with a diamond diadem belonging to Empress Eugénie, making this theft a significant cultural loss compared to the notorious Notre Dame Cathedral fire in 2019.

One piece, the emerald-set imperial crown adorned with over 1,300 diamonds, was found outside the museum, albeit damaged yet repairable. Visitors at the Louvre expressed relief at the arrests but voiced concerns about the recovery of the stolen items. “It’s important for our heritage,” said visitor Freddy Jacquemet. “A week later, it does feel a bit late, but it was important that they were caught,” he added.

Another visitor, Diana Ramirez, emphasized the urgency of recovering the jewels, stating, “That’s what really matters.”

The Louvre has since reopened, but the shadow of this dramatic theft lingers. As the investigation continues, all eyes remain on the authorities to see if they can reclaim these invaluable pieces of history and culture. Further details about the suspects and the recovery efforts are expected to be revealed as the investigation progresses.