Police are monitoring a theft suspect who allegedly swallowed a Faberge pendant worth NZ$33,000 (approximately USD $19,000) in an attempted heist from a jewelry store.
The 32-year-old man, whose name has not been released, was arrested inside Partridge Jewelers in Auckland on November 28. Authorities believe he ingested a limited-edition Faberge pendant during the incident, though the item has not yet been recovered.
“At the time of his arrest he underwent a medical assessment, and an officer is assigned to constantly monitor the man,” said Inspector Grae Anderson. “At this stage the pendant has not been recovered.”
The pendant in question is a rare collector’s item—an ornate Fabergé egg-inspired piece featuring a gold octopus encrusted with diamonds and sapphires. Only 50 of these Fabergé pendants were made, according to the store’s website, and the design draws inspiration from the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy, which centered around a jewel-smuggling ring.
The suspect appeared in Auckland District Court on November 29 but did not enter a plea. He is scheduled to return to court on December 8. Until then, authorities remain on watch, hoping the Faberge pendant will soon resurface—naturally.