PARIS — Authorities have arrested suspects in connection with the theft of crown jewels from the Louvre Museum, according to the Paris prosecutor. The arrests occurred on Saturday evening, just a week after the audacious heist that shocked the world. One of the suspects was reportedly preparing to leave France from Charles de Gaulle Airport.

While French media outlets reported that two individuals were taken into custody, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau did not confirm the exact number of arrests or whether any stolen jewels had been recovered. The theft, which took place last Sunday morning, involved thieves stealing jewels valued at approximately 88 million euros, or $102 million, in less than eight minutes.

Investigators revealed that the intruders used a basket lift to access the museum's façade, forced open a window, smashed display cases, and quickly fled the scene. The museum's director described the incident as a “terrible failure.”

Beccuau stated that the arrests were made by a special police unit focused on armed robberies, serious burglaries, and art thefts. She expressed concern over the premature release of information, which she said could impede the efforts of over 100 investigators working to recover the stolen items and apprehend all involved.

Further details regarding the case are expected to be released after the suspects' custody period concludes. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez commended the investigators for their diligent work, stating, “They have worked tirelessly, just as I asked them to, and who have always had my full confidence.”

The Louvre reopened earlier this week following one of the most significant museum thefts in recent history. The thieves made off with eight items, including a sapphire diadem, a necklace, and a single earring linked to 19th-century queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense. They also stole an emerald necklace and earrings associated with Empress Marie-Louise, as well as a reliquary brooch. Among the stolen items was Empress Eugénie’s diamond diadem and a large corsage-bow brooch, both noted for their exceptional craftsmanship.

One piece, Eugénie’s emerald-set imperial crown adorned with over 1,300 diamonds, was later discovered outside the museum, damaged but repairable. The news of the arrests brought a sense of relief to visitors and locals, with some expressing hope that the stolen jewels would be recovered. “It’s important for our heritage. A week later, it does feel a bit late, we wonder how this could even happen — but it was important that the guys were caught,” said one visitor. Another added, “I think the main thing now is whether they can recover the jewels. That’s what really matters.”