Two suspects involved in the recent jewel heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris have been linked to a prior theft conviction from ten years ago. According to Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau, three of the four alleged members of the theft team are currently in custody following their arrest.
On Saturday, authorities charged a 37-year-old man after DNA evidence was found in the basket lift used to access the museum’s window. He faces preliminary charges of theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy. Beccuau revealed that this suspect has an extensive criminal history, with 11 previous convictions, ten of which are for theft.
In a related development, a 39-year-old man was charged on Wednesday with similar offenses. His criminal record indicates 15 convictions, including two for theft. Beccuau highlighted that both men were involved in the same theft case, for which they were convicted in Paris in 2015.
A third suspect, a 34-year-old man, suspected of being part of what French media refers to as the “commando” team, was also charged this week. Additionally, a 38-year-old woman, identified as the longtime partner of the 37-year-old suspect, faces preliminary charges of complicity. Beccuau noted a certain “closeness” among all suspects, raising questions about their connections.
All four individuals are currently held in custody as investigations continue. When asked about the ongoing search for the stolen jewels, Beccuau emphasized that authorities are exploring all potential avenues in the parallel market for selling jewelry. She expressed hope that the stolen items would not resurface soon, as they could potentially be used for money laundering or illicit trade.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed optimism regarding the investigation during an interview with Le Parisien newspaper on Saturday. He stated, “There are four perpetrators, at least one of whom remains at large, plus possibly the one or those who ordered the crime and the jewelry.” Nuñez conveyed confidence in the police’s efforts but tempered his expectations regarding the quick recovery of the stolen items, adding, “My optimism doesn’t extend to thinking that the loot will be recovered quickly.”
As the investigation unfolds, authorities remain focused on unraveling the details surrounding this high-profile theft, which has captured public attention and raised concerns about security at one of the world’s most famous museums.
