Police Retrieve $19,000 Fabergé Pendant After Six Days

New Zealand Police successfully recovered a limited-edition Fabergé pendant valued at $19,000 after a six-day wait for it to exit the gastrointestinal tract of a man accused of swallowing the jewelry. The pendant, inspired by the 1983 James Bond film “Octopussy,” was retrieved on the evening of December 7, 2023, following close monitoring of the suspect in custody.

The pendant was reported missing after the man was arrested on November 28, 2023, inside Partridge Jewelers in Auckland, shortly after the alleged theft occurred. According to police, the pendant exited the suspect’s body naturally without requiring medical intervention. A photograph released by New Zealand Police depicted the recovered pendant, showcasing its long, gold chain and intact price tag.

This unique piece of jewelry is one of only 50 made and features intricate craftsmanship. According to the store’s website, the egg pendant is made of gold, painted with green enamel, and decorated with 183 diamonds and 2 sapphires. The pendant stands at 3.3 inches tall and opens to reveal an 18-carat yellow gold octopus, adorned with white diamond suckers and black diamond eyes, paying homage to the film’s antagonist.

The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, appeared in court on November 29, 2023, but did not enter a plea regarding the theft charge. He has remained in police custody since his arrest, with officers stationed around the clock to monitor his condition.

Inspector Grae Anderson emphasized the police’s duty of care in this unusual situation, stating, “Given this man is in Police custody, we have a duty of care to continue monitoring him given the circumstances of what has occurred.”

The suspect is scheduled to appear in the Auckland District Court on December 11, 2023, where further legal proceedings will take place. The recovery of the pendant marks a notable moment in this unusual case, combining elements of theft, high-value jewelry, and an unexpected twist in the investigation.