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Man accused of swallowing $19,300 Fabergé locket in Auckland heist
A 32-year-old man faces theft charges after police say he swallowed a diamond-encrusted Fabergé egg locket during an attempted robbery at an Auckland jewelry store last week.
Incident details
Officers responded to a call at Partridge Jewellers in central Auckland on Friday afternoon. The suspect was detained inside the store within minutes, according to police.
The allegedly stolen item-a Fabergé egg locket valued at NZ$33,585 (approximately $19,300 or £14,600)-has not been recovered. Authorities confirmed the man underwent a medical assessment and remains in custody.
About the stolen locket
The Octopussy egg, named after the 1983 James Bond film, features 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires, as listed on the jeweler's website. When opened, it reveals an 18-carat gold miniature octopus inside.
Fabergé, a luxury brand founded in Russia over 200 years ago, is best known for its ornate gemstone eggs crafted from precious metals.
Additional charges
Court documents indicate the suspect also faces charges for allegedly stealing an iPad from the same jewelry store on November 12. Additionally, he is accused of taking cat litter and flea control products worth NZ$100 from a private residence the following day.
Next steps
The man is scheduled to appear in court again on December 8.
