In Auckland, New Zealand, a 32‑year‑old thief attempted to steal a Fabergé‑egg‑filled diamond‑adorned medalion and swallowed it before being arrested.
Theft Occurs at Partridge Jewellers
The incident took place in Auckland, New Zealand, when a 32‑year‑old local man stole a medalion studded with diamonds and containing a Fabergé egg from Partridge Jewellers.
Description of the Stolen Medalion
The medalion is made of 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires, with a miniature eight‑armed octopus crafted from 18‑karat gold inside the Fabergé egg. It was inspired by the 1983 James Bond film “Octopussy”, which featured Fabergé egg thefts.
Arrest and Medical Check
Almost immediately after the theft, police arrested the suspect at the jeweller’s. During the arrest, the man was constantly monitored and underwent medical examinations, but no medical intervention was needed because he had swallowed the medalion.
Charges and Prior Theft Allegations
He faces charges of theft, and BBC reports that he also allegedly stole an iPad from the same store, as well as cat litter and flea treatment from a private home. Partridge Jewellers confirmed that the medalion will be returned.
What Are Fabergé Eggs?
Fabergé eggs are jeweled artworks created in the 19th‑century Russian court during the reigns of Emperor Alexander III and Nicholas II. They were made by jeweller Peter Carl Fabergé and are prized for the use of precious stones.
