Post by : Rameen Ariff

Paris authorities have taken a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the audacious Louvre heist, arresting five additional suspects, though the crown jewels remain missing. The arrests, carried out late Wednesday night across Paris and surrounding areas including Seine-Saint-Denis, mark the latest development in the high-profile theft that shocked the world on October 19.

The Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, confirmed the detentions but withheld identities and additional details, citing the sensitivity of ongoing investigations. Among the five is a 34-year-old Algerian national residing in France since 2010. Police intercepted him at Charles de Gaulle Airport while he attempted to fly to Algeria without a return ticket. His DNA was reportedly found on one of the scooters used in the heist. Another suspect, aged 39, was apprehended at his Aubervilliers home, with his DNA detected on a glass case where the jewels were displayed.

The Louvre heist, executed in broad daylight, saw thieves steal eight pieces of French crown jewels valued at €88 million ($102 million) in less than eight minutes. The robbers forced open a window, broke into display cases using power tools, and escaped on scooters along the Seine River, with additional vehicles pre-positioned for their getaway.

Authorities have clarified that nothing currently suggests any inside involvement by museum staff. Video surveillance confirmed at least four primary participants, who accessed the Apollo Gallery using a freight lift mounted on a truck. Two of them climbed through a window to reach the jewels.

The arrests bring renewed attention to the challenges in securing national treasures, with French police acknowledging gaps in museum defenses. Prosecutor Beccuau also appealed to anyone in possession of the stolen jewels, reminding the public that the items are unsellable and returning them voluntarily is still possible.

Investigations are continuing as French authorities work tirelessly to recover the crown jewels. The Louvre heist remains a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in museum security and the extraordinary lengths criminals will go to target priceless cultural artifacts.

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