An armed robber has stolen $53 million worth of diamonds from Lev Leviev. A lone gunman stormed the Carlton Hotel on Cannes seafront today and made off with the gems. The hotel was hosting an exhibition of diamonds owned by Leviev.
The gunman reportedly had an accomplice outside who was seen escaping on foot with the gems.
“The raid took place in broad daylight when there were hundreds of holidaymakers enjoying the sunshine. It could not have been more audacious,” a police source said. “The thief took advantage of the crowds and the relaxed Sunday atmosphere."
The robber reportedly waved a gun at those staging the exhibition of Leviev's jewels, but no shots were fired, and nobody was injured.
A Cannes police spokesman said: “A full and urgent operation is underway to catch the culprit and recover these jewels. Thieves see Cannes as rich pickings.”
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on July 28, 2013
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