Two Suspects Arrested in $102 Million Louvre Crown Jewels Heist

French authorities have made significant progress in the investigation of the daring Louvre Museum jewel heist, where thieves stole eight historic Crown Jewels worth approximately $102 million in just seven minutes. Two suspects, both in their thirties and believed to be part of a four-person gang, were arrested—one at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to leave the country, and the other in a northern Paris suburb known for organized crime. The robbers used a truck-mounted hydraulic lift to access a second-floor balcony, cut through a window, smashed display cases, and escaped on scooters, exploiting security blind spots and ongoing construction work. Authorities have collected extensive forensic evidence, including DNA and fingerprints from discarded items, which could lead to further arrests and recovery of the jewels before they can be broken up or sold. The heist has exposed critical security flaws at the world's most-visited museum, prompting a national outcry and a review of surveillance systems, while investigations continue with over 60 specialized officers involved. Despite the shock and security failures, two stolen pieces, including Empress Eugénie's crown, were recovered near the museum after being abandoned by the thieves during their escape.