The Paris prosecutor announced on Saturday that two new individuals have been charged in connection with the theft of the crown jewels from the Louvre museum. Laure Beccuau, the prosecutor, stated that a 37-year-old suspect has been charged with theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy, while a 38-year-old woman is accused of being an accomplice. Both suspects have been placed in custody and have denied any involvement in the crime.
Earlier in the week, five individuals, including one identified through DNA evidence, were arrested by the police. Two additional suspects, aged 34 and 39 from Aubervilliers, were also charged with theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy. According to Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau, the two men provided limited statements and only partially admitted their roles in the heist. It is believed that these suspects were the ones who forcibly entered the Apollo Gallery. One of them was apprehended at Charles-de-Gaulle Airport with a one-way ticket to Algeria, and his DNA matched samples found on a scooter used during the escape.
Authorities have not released the identities or detailed backgrounds of the arrested individuals, citing French laws that protect the confidentiality of ongoing investigations to safeguard police operations and respect the privacy rights of victims, a practice known as “secret d’instruction.” Only the prosecutor is authorized to disclose information regarding the case, with penalties for those who violate these rules.
