WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) - New Zealand Police reported on Friday the recovery of a James Bond-inspired Fabergé pendant following a six-day monitoring period of the individual accused of swallowing the valuable jewelry. The pendant was retrieved on Thursday evening as it naturally exited the suspect's gastrointestinal tract without the need for medical intervention.
The limited-edition Fabergé egg pendant, valued at 33,000 New Zealand dollars (approximately $19,000), draws inspiration from the 1983 James Bond film "Octopussy." In the film, a jewel-smuggling operation revolves around a counterfeit Fabergé egg, adding a layer of intrigue to the item involved in the theft.
On November 28, the suspect was apprehended inside Partridge Jewelers in Auckland shortly after the alleged theft of the pendant. He made an initial court appearance the following day, November 29, where he refrained from entering a plea to the theft charge. Since his arrest, the 32-year-old man, who has not been publicly identified, has remained in police custody as investigations continue.
New Zealand police took special precautions regarding the suspect's well-being during their investigation. Inspector Grae Anderson stated, "Given this man is in Police custody, we have a duty of care to continue monitoring him given the circumstances of what has occurred." Officers were stationed around the clock to ensure they did not miss the opportunity to recover the pendant.
The pendant itself is described as being crafted from gold, painted with green enamel, and encrusted with 183 diamonds and two sapphires. It measures 8.4 centimeters (3.3 inches) in height and includes a stand for display. Notably, the egg opens to reveal an 18-carat yellow gold octopus nestled within, adorned with white diamond suckers and black diamond eyes—a detail that pays homage to the film's antagonist.
As the investigation proceeds, the suspect is set to appear again in Auckland District Court on Monday, where authorities will address the theft allegations more substantively. The police's handling of this unusual case underscores their commitment to ensuring both justice and the health of the individual involved.
This incident not only highlights issues of theft in luxury retail but also reflects the lengths to which law enforcement will go to recover stolen property, particularly when it is of significant monetary and artistic value. The outcome of the suspect's case will likely draw media attention given its bizarre circumstances, and the story may resonate with fans of the James Bond franchise.
