Photo: Shutterstock French and Belgian authorities have dismantled an organized crime network accused of trafficking stolen jewelry and precious metals between the two countries.
In a statement published on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the Gendarmerie nationale announced that an "extraordinary network" operating between France and Belgium had been broken up following a coordinated cross-border investigation.
According to authorities, the operation resulted in the seizure of more than two kilograms of jewelry and precious stones, six kilograms of gold bullion estimated to be worth €700,000, 35 buried gold coins, 36 luxury watches, and €129,000 in cash.
Investigators said 15 of the watches were found buried under a terrace and in a garden, while another 21 were hidden behind a fireplace.
The Gendarmerie stated that suspects were making numerous trips from Seine-Saint-Denis in France to dispose of goods stolen from jewelry stores in Antwerp, Belgium.
A total of 19 suspected gold and jewelry fences (persons who received the stolen goods) were arrested during the operation.
The investigation was coordinated by the Paris Interregional Specialized Jurisdiction and Belgian judicial authorities in Charleroi and Antwerp, with assistance from Eurojust.
French authorities credited the investigation work carried out by the Versailles Research Section of the Gendarmerie, describing it as crucial to the success of the case.
No further details about charges or court proceedings have been released.