PARIS (AP) — Several suspects have been brought before an investigative judge on preliminary charges in connection with the Louvre jewels heist on Saturday, as reported by French media. This follows their arrest by police three days earlier during a comprehensive investigation into the theft.
According to reports from news broadcaster BFM TV and Le Parisien newspaper, a 38-year-old woman is facing charges of complicity in theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy. Her lawyer, Adrien Sorrentino, stated to reporters that the judge has ordered her to be imprisoned and that she vehemently denies any involvement in the crime.
In addition to the woman, at least one other suspect was present at the courthouse for a similar hearing, which may lead to preliminary charges against them as well. However, the Paris prosecutor’s office has not provided an immediate response to inquiries from The Associated Press regarding the case's details.
On Wednesday, five suspects were apprehended by police in connection with the heist, with one individual linked to the crime through DNA evidence. The investigation into the jewel theft has led to the identification of two earlier suspects—men aged 34 and 39, who hail from Aubervilliers, located north of Paris. This week, both men were formally charged with theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy.
Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau reported that the two suspects made “minimalist” statements and “partially admitted” to their roles in the incident. Authorities believe these men were responsible for forcing their way into the Apollo Gallery. One of the suspects was intercepted at Charles-de-Gaulle Airport while attempting to flee with a one-way ticket to Algeria; his DNA matched that found on a scooter used during the getaway.
No names or significant biographical information about the arrested individuals have been disclosed to the public. Under French law, investigations are kept confidential to avoid compromising police actions and to uphold the victims' right to privacy, a policy referred to as “secret d’instruction.” Only the prosecutor is permitted to make public statements about the developments in the case, and any violators of this policy may face prosecution.
In a related incident, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that six individuals were arrested on Thursday shortly after a robbery occurred at a gold refining laboratory in Lyon. During this robbery, the perpetrators employed explosives. Fortunately, the stolen goods, estimated to be worth around 12 million euros (approximately $13.9 million), have been recovered, as stated by Nuñez on social media platform X.
