Anti-drug operation in Paris: stolen Picasso worth 15 million euros recovered
French authorities discovered a stolen artwork by Pablo Picasso during a raid linked to drug trafficking. A 37-year-old art warehouse guard was arrested.
Anti-drug operation in Paris: stolen Picasso worth 15 million euros recovered
During a routine raid related to drug trafficking in a residence in the south-east suburb of Ormesson-sur-Marne near Paris, French police discovered a painting stolen by Pablo Picasso, valued at 15 million euros.
The artwork was found on 15 June in a house belonging to the aunt of an alleged drug trafficker. According to French newspaper Le Parisien, it is a portrait of Marie-Thérèse Walter, the painter's mistress, painted in 1937. Its value is estimated between 12 and 15 million euros.
The authorities arrested a 37-year-old man working as a guard at an art storage company in the capital. The arrested man admitted to removing the painting from the warehouse, telling police that he was attempting to check empty safes.
He is now facing charges for theft and involvement in drug trafficking, after raids on several residences in the eastern suburbs revealed 17 kilogrammes of cannabis, designer clothing worth 200,000 euros and 7,000 euros in cash.
The Créteil prosecutor's office clarified that the investigation was part of the fight against drug trafficking. It also confirmed that the painting had been authenticated as a genuine work by Picasso.
Three other people were arrested and presented to court for an initial hearing on Friday 19 June. Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues, and the trial is scheduled for August.
Source: CNN Greece
Source: Google News GR — Crime (el)