French authorities have charged two more people in connection with the recent Louvre Museum theft, bringing the total number of individuals facing charges to four for the 88 million euro jewel heist.
Louvre Theft Suspects Charged
A 38-year-old woman and a 37-year-old man were charged by Paris prosecutors with complicity in organized theft and criminal conspiracy, respectively. Both suspects have denied any involvement in the crime, which has led to a total of seven arrests.
A magistrate judge ruled on Saturday that the two must remain in custody as the case proceeds. The first two suspects arrested in the case were previously charged with criminal conspiracy and theft committed by an organized gang.
Details of the Apollo Gallery Jewel Heist
The brazen robbery occurred on Oct. 19 when a four-person team broke into the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery in broad daylight. The thieves stole jewels valued at 88 million euros ($102 million) in an attack that lasted less than eight minutes.
Progress in the Louvre Heist Investigation
French authorities have made significant headway in the Louvre heist investigation, using forensic evidence to link suspects to the crime scene. One suspect, a 34-year-old Algerian national, was apprehended at Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to flee to Algeria.
Investigators identified his DNA on a scooter used during the escape.
Another suspect, a 39-year-old man living in Aubervilliers, was arrested at his home. His DNA was reportedly linked to a display case within the Apollo Gallery.
The 37-year-old man most recently charged is known to authorities for past robberies, while the 39-year-old has a record of multiple prior thefts.
Investigation Continues into Louvre Museum Theft
The two most recently arrested suspects will remain in custody during the ongoing investigation. Authorities have expressed concerns that the suspects may attempt to collude with others or destroy evidence if released.
