New Zealand Police successfully recovered a valuable Fabergé pendant after a six-day observation period of a suspect who allegedly ingested the jewelry. The pendant, inspired by the iconic James Bond film “Octopussy,” was retrieved on November 30, 2023, after it naturally exited the suspect’s gastrointestinal tract without the need for medical intervention.
The pendant, valued at $19,000, is part of a limited edition, with only 50 pieces crafted. It features intricate details, including 183 diamonds and two sapphires, and is designed to resemble a Fabergé egg. A photograph released by New Zealand Police shows a gloved hand holding the pendant, which remains on its original long gold chain, complete with an intact price tag.
On November 28, 2023, police arrested a 32-year-old man inside Partridge Jewelers in Auckland shortly after the alleged theft occurred. Following the incident, he made a court appearance on November 29, 2023, where he did not enter a plea to the charge of theft. Since his arrest, he has been in police custody, and officers have been monitoring him continuously to ensure the safe recovery of the stolen item.
In a statement, Inspector Grae Anderson emphasized the responsibility of the police to keep a close watch on the suspect given the circumstances surrounding the case. “Given this man is in Police custody, we have a duty of care to continue monitoring him,” he said.
The pendant’s design pays homage to the film’s plot, which involves a fake Fabergé egg used in a jewel-smuggling operation. According to the store’s website, the egg opens to reveal an 18ct yellow gold octopus adorned with white diamond suckers and black diamond eyes, encapsulating the essence of the film’s antagonist.
The suspect is due to appear before the Auckland District Court on December 4, 2023, where further legal proceedings will take place. Until then, he remains in police custody as the investigation continues.
