jewellery

Four more arrests made following Louvre jewellery heist

Four more people have been arrested as part of the investigation into last month’s theft of precious jewellery at the Louvre Museum, the Paris prosecutor’s office says.

Two men, aged 38 and 39, and two women, aged 31 and 40, were arrested on Tuesday. They are all from the Paris region.

Among them is thought to be the last member of a four-man gang that allegedly carried out the daylight heist, according to French media. The other three suspected thieves have already been arrested and charged, officials say.

Police now have up to 96 hours to question them. No trace has so far been found of the stolen jewels – worth €88m (£76m; $102m) – which were taken on 19 October.

Four people have already charged over the heist – three men and a woman, who also live in the Paris region.

A 38-year-old woman was charged earlier this month with complicity in organised theft and criminal conspiracy with a view to committing a crime.

Separately, a man, aged 37, was charged with theft and criminal conspiracy.

These two suspects, who have not been named publicly, have denied any involvement.

Ms Beccuau previously told French news agency Franceinfo said the two were in a relationship and had children together, without giving any further details.

Meanwhile, two men were charged with theft and criminal conspiracy in October after officials said they had “partially recognised” their involvement in the heist.

The heist happened when the group of four men used a stolen vehicle-mounted mechanical lift to gain access to the Galerie d’Apollon (Gallery of Apollo) via a balcony close to the River Seine, Beccuau has previously said.

The men used a disc cutter to crack open display cases housing the jewellery.

The thieves were inside for four minutes and made their escape on two scooters waiting outside at 09:38, before switching to cars.

One of the stolen items – a crown – was dropped during the escape but eight other items of jewellery – including an emerald-and-diamond necklace that Napoleon I gave his second wife, Empress Marie-Louise – were taken.

Beccuau has said the heist was carried out by petty criminals rather than organised crime professionals.

Shortly after the theft, it was revealed by the Louvre’s director that the only camera monitoring the Galerie d’Apollon was pointing away from a balcony the thieves climbed over to break in.

The president of the Louvre, Laurence des Cars, has since admitted the museum had failed in its responsibilities, but denied that security had been overlooked – saying that from the time she took office in 2021 she had been warning constantly of the need for more investment.

Since the incident, security measures have been tightened around France’s cultural institutions.

The Louvre has transferred some of its most precious jewels to the Bank of France following the heist.

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‘I’m a travel agent of 30 years and everyone must visit these 5 Spanish destinations’

An experienced travel agent has listed the underrated Spanish destinations that you should see “before you die” – and they’re all easy to get to from the UK

A travel agent has listed the underrated destinations in Spain you should consider putting onto your bucket list.

Globe-trotter Carlos Lavilla has seen it all over the years – from beautiful beaches to villages perched in the mountains and cities steeped in history. So, to make the most of this experience, he puts all this knowledge to good use by sharing his top tips for fellow holidaymakers.

In a recent TikTok video, Carlos listed some Spanish spots that are more off the beaten track than Madrid or Barcelona. He praised the areas for their authenticity, history and local charm.

Carlos said: “These are the five destinations in Spain you should visit at least once in your life. Remember, this is just my personal opinion as a travel agent and an inveterate traveller for more than 30 years.”

So would you ever give them a visit? You can check out the full list below for inspiration before booking your next trip…

1. Frigiliana, Malaga

Located a few miles away from the Costa del Sol, Frigiliana has earned the title of ‘jewel of the Axarquia’.

Its old town, with its Moorish-Mudejar heritage, has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site, and every corner seems designed to make time stand still.

The whitewashed façades, bougainvillaea-filled planters and views of the Mediterranean turn every stroll into a living postcard.

We’d recommend taking a taxi into the town because parking can be very limited.

This also means you can enjoy some of the region’s delicious (and cheap!) wine without having to get behind the wheel.

2. Merida, Badajoz

Founded in 25 BC as Augusta Emerita, Merida was the capital of Roman Lusitania.

So it’s a hotspot for history buffs, who can visit one of the most complete archaeological sites in Europe.

It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is home to a Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, as well as historic bridges and the Los Milagros Aqueduct.

After all that exploring, you’ll get the chance to try some delicious local cuisine.

The region is famous for its top-quality Iberian products, which are bound to leave your mouth watering.

3. Albarracin, Teruel

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Albarracín seems suspended in another era.

Its ochre colour buildings and winding stone streets of stone transport you back in time – especially in the historic quarter.

Be sure to visit the Cathedral of El Salvador, as well as the walls that crown the hill.

It’s a great spot for a charming rural escape – and isn’t as hot and crowded as other places in Spain, making it perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

4. Salamanca, Castilla y León

Few cities combine such artistic heritage and vitality as Salamanca.

Its famous university, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe and has been the cradle of scholars, artists and writers.

The Baroque-style Plaza Mayor is a bustling local meeting point, active day and night.

Be sure to stop at The University, the Old and New Cathedrals.

Then do as the locals do by finishing off your day with some tapas and enjoying the ample nightlife.

5. Consuegra, Toledo

If you’ve read Don Quixote, this location is a must-visit.

The windmills of Consuegra stand on Calderico hill, which is what inspired the famous novel.

It’s one of the most photographed panoramic views in central Spain and a great place to watch the sun set.

You can visit from Madrid or Toledo, making it a brilliant option for those just looking for a day trip.



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Self-titled ‘hot mum’ branded ‘inappropriate’ for her Disneyland outfit

Jennifer, who goes by the handle ‘I’m Fit Jen’, is known for her bold fashion choices but not everyone was impressed with her latest outfit, which she wore to Disneyland

A self-proclaimed ‘hot’ mum has caused quite a stir with her outfit choice during a family trip to Disneyland Paris. Jennifer, known on TikTok as ‘I’m Fit Jen’, is no stranger to turning heads with her bold fashion choices.

The fitness fanatic previously claimed that she channels Julia Roberts’ character in ‘Pretty Woman’ when she goes to work, rocking a mini dress and heels. However, it was her recent visit to Disneyland Paris that really sparked conversation on social media.

In a TikTok video that has since garnered thousands of views, she showcased her outfit at the family-friendly theme park. Tattooed Jennifer posed in front of the iconic Disney castle, donning sparkly Minnie Mouse ears and sunglasses.

Author avatarMilo Boyd

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She matched the pink bow on her headband with a figure-hugging playsuit, reports the Daily Star. She finished off the look with pink trainers, a necklace and a handful of bracelets. As the glamorous mum lip-synced to a tune, she flashed a grin and cheekily stuck out her tongue at the end of the clip.

Jennifer posted another clip showcasing her Minnie Mouse ears, this time matched with a green crop top and denim booty shorts. Her steamy Disneyland clips have proved popular with supporters, with many flocking to the comments to heap praise on the mum.

Yet not everyone has been thrilled with her clothing selection. Some have declared Jennifer’s ensemble was simply “not appropriate” for the family theme park. Critics of Jennifer’s look suggested that she should wear something more than the playsuit.

On its website, Disney explains its approach to dress codes.

“The parks are a casual, family-oriented environment. We suggest you dress comfortably, wear good walking shoes and check the local weather report before you leave for the parks. Review our Pre-Arrival Tips to make sure you come prepared for a fun-filled trip!

“Ensuring that the parks are family-friendly is an important part of the Disney experience. In that spirit, we ask you to use your discretion and common sense.”

On its list of “attire that is not appropriate for theme parks”, it includes; “Clothing which, by nature, exposes excessive portions of the skin that may be viewed as inappropriate for a family environment.”

It continues: “Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, the event, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards. While we encourage creativity, we also value safety and good judgment.”

The footage has re-emerged as the world of celebrity embraces the braless and ‘naked’ frock phenomenon. Sydney Sweeney showed off her take on the trend, sporting a silver chainmail gown with nothing beneath.

Chloe Kelly also joined the movement as she sported a jewelled creation for Harper’s Bazaar’s Women of the Year awards.

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