New Zealand Police successfully recovered a stolen Fabergé pendant after monitoring a suspect for six days. The pendant, inspired by the James Bond film “Octopussy,” reappeared naturally when the man, who allegedly swallowed it, expelled it from his gastrointestinal tract without medical assistance. The recovery occurred on the night of November 30, 2023.
The limited-edition pendant, valued at $19,000, was seized shortly after the incident at Partridge Jewelers in Auckland on November 28. A police image released on December 1 showed the recovered pendant along with its lengthy gold chain, still bearing its price tag. The pendant measures 3.3 inches in height and features intricate designs, including 183 diamonds and two sapphires.
Details of the Incident
The 32-year-old suspect was arrested within the jewelry store after the alleged theft. Following his arrest, he made a court appearance on November 29 but did not enter a plea regarding the theft charge. Since then, he has remained in police custody, where officers have continuously monitored him.
Inspector Grae Anderson of the New Zealand Police emphasized the necessity of this surveillance, stating, “Given this man is in Police custody, we have a duty of care to continue monitoring him given the circumstances of what has occurred.”
The pendant itself is a collectible item, with only 50 pieces ever made. Its design pays homage to the fictional world of James Bond, specifically the plot of “Octopussy,” which revolves around a jewel-smuggling operation featuring a fake Fabergé egg. The egg opens to reveal an 18ct yellow gold octopus, adorned with white diamond suckers and black diamond eyes.
Next Steps for the Suspect
The suspect is scheduled to appear in Auckland District Court on December 4, 2023. Until that time, he will remain under police supervision. The case highlights not only the intriguing world of high-value jewelry but also the lengths law enforcement will go to recover stolen property.
As the investigation continues, the police are likely to build a case surrounding the theft, which has captured the public’s interest due to its unusual circumstances.
