suspects in the Louvre jewel heist: who has been arrested and what we know so far
On 19 October 2025 thieves stole eight pieces from the French crown jewels on display in the Galerie d’Apollon at the Louvre. The spectacular daytime robbery lasted under eight minutes and exposed major security gaps at one of the world’s most famous museums. Investigators have since arrested several people; below is a clear summary of the suspects, the charges, and the state of the inquiry.
Quick summary
Two men were arrested and charged with organised theft and criminal conspiracy after being linked to the robbery by DNA and other evidence; prosecutors say both have “partially admitted” involvement. In a separate sweep police arrested five additional people in Paris and Seine‑Saint‑Denis who are suspected of links to the operation. The stolen jewels have not been recovered.
Who the arrested suspects are
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Two initial suspects in their 30s, both from the Paris suburbs (reports name Aubervilliers and Seine‑Saint‑Denis as places of residence), were detained on 25 October. One was stopped at Charles de Gaulle airport trying to board a flight abroad; the other was arrested at home. Investigators matched DNA from an item found at the scene to one of them. Both have been charged and are in custody.
Police subsequently arrested five more people in raids carried out in Paris and Seine‑Saint‑Denis. Officials say only one of those five is believed to be part of the four‑person team that entered the Apollo Gallery; the others “may be able to inform” investigators about how the heist was organised. Authorities have not publicly released identities.
What charges the suspects face
The Paris prosecutor’s office has opened inquiries for vols en bande organisée (organised gang theft) and association de malfaiteurs (criminal conspiracy). These are serious criminal counts in France and carry long prison terms if proven.
Evidence and admissions
Prosecutors say DNA evidence from a helmet and other scene traces helped identify one suspect. The two men already charged have “partially admitted” involvement according to the Paris prosecutor, though investigators continue to seek the jewels and additional accomplices.
Where the suspects were arrested and what that suggests
Arrests so far have been in and around Paris, including an attempt to leave the country at Charles de Gaulle airport. That pattern has led investigators to concentrate on local criminal networks and logistical support rather than an inside museum conspiracy; French authorities say there is currently no evidence the theft was carried out with insider help.
Status of the stolen jewels
As of the latest official statements the eight jewels — estimated at roughly €88 million in value — remain missing. Prosecutors have warned the pieces may have been dismantled or moved abroad, but they say they remain hopeful the items will be recovered.
Security and investigative response
The robbery highlighted CCTV blind spots and other security shortcomings at the Louvre; French authorities have mobilised a large investigative team and increased patrols near the museum. The prosecutor’s office has assigned dozens of investigators to the case and is coordinating searches, arrests and international inquiries where relevant.