Seven men from California have been indicted in connection with what federal officials are calling the largest jewellery heist in US history, involving the theft of an estimated $100 million worth of gold, gems, and luxury watches. The long-unsolved case dates back to July 2022, when a Brinks security truck transporting 73 bags of high-value merchandise was robbed at a remote rest stop in Lebec, California.

According to the Department of Justice, the suspects had been tracking the truck after it departed a jewellery exhibition near San Francisco. One of the defendants allegedly scouted the event for days before coordinating the heist. The group followed the truck for roughly 300 miles, waiting until it stopped overnight. At the time, one driver was asleep inside the cab, and the other was away eating.

The crew then stole 24 bags of jewellery under the cover of darkness. Authorities believe the vehicle’s padlock was sawed off, no weapons were used in the operation.

Court documents do not specify how the suspects gained access to the vehicle’s secured storage, but investigators have recovered some of the stolen goods during search warrant operations executed on June 16. The Brinks truck was en route to another jewellery event in Pasadena when the theft occurred. “Most of my clients are senior citizens, some are 85 years old,” said attorney Jerry Kroll, who represents several of the victimized jewellers. “This is really serious. If there’s something recovered for them, we’d be very grateful.”

It remains unclear whether the accused have secured legal representation. The Justice Department has not disclosed the exact amount of jewellery recovered or the current value of the missing items.

Erizia Rubyjeana

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