Another Four Detentions Made in Link to Louvre Precious Gems Heist
Four additional persons have been detained within the framework of the ongoing investigation into the last month's robbery of precious gems at the famous Paris museum, as stated by the Paris prosecutor's office.
Particulars of the Latest Arrests
Two male suspects, 38 and 39 years old, and two women, 31 and 40 years of age, were taken into custody this Tuesday. Each hails from the Île-de-France region.
One of those detained is believed to be the last participant of a four-man gang that is said to have performed the broad-daylight robbery, per local news outlets. The remaining trio suspected thieves were previously detained and charged, officials say.
Police now have up to 96 hours to question them. Not a single clue has so far been found of the taken jewelry - appraised at €88m (£76m; $102m) - which disappeared on the nineteenth of October.
Previous Charges and Denials
Four individuals have already been charged concerning the theft - three male and one female suspects, who similarly reside within the greater Paris.
A 38-year-old woman was charged earlier this month with aiding organized theft and illegal conspiracy with a view to committing a crime.
In a distinct case, a 37-year-old male, was charged with robbery and illegal conspiracy.
These two suspects, who remain unnamed in public records, have denied any involvement.
How the Heist Was Executed
The heist happened when the team of four individuals employed a hijacked vehicle with a mounted lift to enter the Apollo Gallery by means of a balcony near the Seine River.
The men used a disc cutter to force open showcases containing the jewelry.
The thieves were inside for a mere four minutes and executed their getaway on a pair of scooters stationed outside at 09:38 in the morning, before changing to vehicles.
One taken artifact - a royal crown - was fallen in the flight but eight more objects of precious ornaments - featuring an emerald and diamond necklace that Napoleon I gave his second spouse, Marie-Louise of Austria - were appropriated.
Security Shortcomings and Aftermath
Officials have revealed that the heist was carried out by petty criminals as opposed to sophisticated criminal organizations.
Soon following the robbery, it was revealed by the Louvre's director that the only camera observing the Galerie d'Apollon was facing opposite the terrace used by the perpetrators to break in.
The museum's president has subsequently acknowledged that the establishment had not fulfilled in its duties, but rejected claims that security was neglected - stating that from the beginning of her tenure in the year 2021 she had been repeatedly cautioning of the necessity of increased funding.
Enhanced Protective Steps
In the wake of the robbery, protective protocols have been strengthened for the nation's cultural landmarks.
The Louvre has transferred numerous highly prized jewelry items to the Bank of France in the aftermath of the robbery.