Police Recover $19,000 Fabergé Egg After Alleged Theft Attempt
Police in Auckland, New Zealand, announced the recovery of a Fabergé egg pendant valued at $19,000 following an unusual theft attempt. The pendant was swallowed by a 32-year-old man who has been accused of trying to steal it from Partridge Jewelers on November 28, 2023. Authorities reported that the pendant was recovered six days later, with no medical intervention required.
The suspect has not been publicly named and remains in custody. He was closely monitored by police after he attempted to conceal the pendant by ingesting it. Officers were alerted to the situation by staff at the jewelry store, which is located in New Zealand’s largest city.
According to police, the pendant was located and retrieved on December 4, 2023. Images released by the authorities showed the pendant being held by a gloved hand, still bearing its price tag, indicating a value of over 33,000 New Zealand dollars.
Details of the Pendant and the Incident
The pendant, measuring approximately the size of a large fingernail, is crafted from 18-carat yellow gold and adorned with 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires. It is a special edition piece inspired by the 1983 James Bond film “Octopussy,” which features a similar Fabergé egg design. In the film, James Bond participates in a bidding war over a unique Fabergé egg, which he later swaps for a replica.
The official Fabergé website describes the pendant’s design as having “subtle nods” to the film, adding that the locket opens to reveal a miniature octopus crafted from 18-carat gold with black diamond eyes.
After the suspect’s arrest, he underwent a medical assessment and was under constant surveillance to ensure the pendant would pass without complications. Inspector Grae Anderson, Auckland Central Area Commander, stated, “An officer is assigned to constantly monitor the man. Given this man is in police custody, we have a duty of care to continue monitoring him given the circumstances of what has occurred.”
Legal Proceedings Underway
The suspect is scheduled to appear in the Auckland District Court on December 11, 2023, where he has yet to enter a plea regarding the theft charge. His first court appearance took place on December 2, 2023, after his initial arrest.
The unusual nature of the theft attempt has captured public attention, reflecting the lengths to which some individuals may go in pursuit of high-value items. As the investigation continues, further details surrounding the incident and the suspect’s motivations may come to light.
