Louvre theft: Investigators find new lead with photos on suspects' phones

Investigators have uncovered new evidence in the high-profile jewel theft from Paris's Louvre museum, potentially linking suspects to Belgium. Images found on the mobile phones of individuals arrested in connection with cargo theft in Belgium appear to show the interior of the Louvre, including the Galerie d’Apollon, the scene of the crime.

The theft of the crown jewels, estimated to be worth 88 million euros, occurred in October of the previous year. French and Belgian authorities have reportedly launched a joint investigation to determine if there is a connection between the cargo thieves detained in Belgium and the four suspects already in custody in France. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities analyzing the mobile phone data.

The suspects in France are accused of breaking into the Louvre on October 19, 2025, and stealing the valuable crown jewels. The whereabouts of the stolen items remain unknown. Investigators suspect the jewels may have entered the black market through Antwerp's diamond trade. The incident prompted international attention and led to a debate about the museum's security measures, resulting in the resignation of the museum's director at the time.