A diamond-studded locket swallowed by a New Zealand man who tried to steal it has been recovered, police say.
The Fabergé egg locket, valued at NZ$33,585 ($19,300; £14,600), was recovered in a natural manner. Police reported, Medical intervention [was] not required. This unusual incident occurred shortly after the arrest of the 32-year-old man at Partridge Jewellers in Auckland, just minutes after he allegedly ingested the coveted piece.
The locket is adorned with 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires. It opens to reveal an intricate miniature Octopus made from 18-carat gold.
The man has been charged with theft.
New Zealand police previously stated that the suspect had undergone a medical assessment and is closely monitored while in custody. They emphasized their duty of care in light of the unique circumstances of his case.
The Octopussy egg, designed with inspiration from the 1983 James Bond film of the same name, is part of Fabergé's collection, a revered jeweler known for its exquisite creations made of luxurious gems and precious metals.
Partridge Jewellers confirmed that the locket will be returned to Fabergé following this incident. The suspect is expected to appear in court again on 8 December.
In addition to the theft of the Fabergé egg, police charge sheets revealed he is also facing allegations of previously stealing an iPad from the same jeweler and making off with cat litter and flea control products from a private address the day after.
