By AJMN News Desk
Paris | October 26, 2025

French Police Arrest Two Suspects in $20 Million Louvre Jewel Heist

French authorities have arrested two men suspected of involvement in the daring Louvre jewel heist, a meticulously planned robbery that stunned Paris and the global art world last week.

According to Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau, both suspects were taken into custody on Saturday evening, October 25, as part of an ongoing investigation involving more than 100 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies.

The arrests mark the first major breakthrough in the case since the October 19 theft, during which a group of masked thieves made off with royal jewels worth an estimated $20 million from the Louvre Museum’s Apollo Gallery.

 Arrest Details and Suspect Backgrounds

Authorities confirmed that one of the suspects was apprehended at Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to flee France, while the second was arrested in the Seine-Saint-Denis suburb northeast of Paris.

Both men are in their 30s and reportedly have prior records linked to property crimes and illegal trade in luxury goods. Investigators believe they may be part of a larger criminal network specializing in high-value cultural thefts.

Prosecutor Beccuau stated:

“The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests cannot be ruled out. The suspects are being questioned under judicial supervision.”

Officials have not released the suspects’ names pending formal charges.

 What Happened During the Heist

The robbery took place in the early hours of October 19, when at least three masked individuals infiltrated the Louvre Museum using a hydraulic lift to access a side window near the Seine River.

The thieves reportedly disabled alarms, shattered a display case, and stole eight royal jewels within seven minutes  escaping on scooters before security could intervene.

Among the stolen items were several 19th-century pieces from the French imperial collection, including a diamond-studded tiara once belonging to Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III.

One crown, dropped during the thieves’ escape, was later recovered outside the museum, though partially damaged.

How Investigators Tracked the Suspects

Police say over 150 forensic traces were collected from the scene  including gloves, helmets, and tool fragments.
Investigators analyzed CCTV footage from Paris streets, nearby private buildings, and highway toll cameras to trace the suspects’ movements.

Digital forensics teams also examined burner phones and encrypted communication apps linked to the suspects.

A police source told Le Monde:“It was a professional job, but they underestimated the scope of surveillance in central Paris. Every step left a digital or visual trace.”

Museum Response and Public Reaction

The Louvre Museum confirmed temporary closure of its Apollo Gallery for inspection and restoration work, adding that “security systems are being fully reviewed and reinforced.”

Museum Director Laurence des Cars described the arrests as “a relief for staff and curators who have devoted their lives to protecting France’s heritage.”

Art experts say the recovery process may take months, as stolen jewels are often melted down or resold through black-market channels across Europe.

 A Broader Pattern of Cultural Crime

The Louvre heist has reignited debate about the vulnerability of major museums to organized cultural crime, especially amid rising black-market demand for rare gems and artifacts.

Interpol’s Cultural Property Crime Unit reported a 12% increase in art and jewel thefts worldwide in 2025, with criminal groups exploiting digital tools for planning and trafficking.

 What Happens Next

Both suspects remain in police custody and are expected to appear before a Paris magistrate within 72 hours.
Prosecutors are exploring charges including aggravated theft, criminal conspiracy, and trafficking in stolen cultural property  crimes that carry sentences of up to 20 years in prison under French law.

Authorities have yet to confirm whether any of the missing jewels have been recovered. The Louvre continues to cooperate closely with national and international investigators.