Police in New Zealand have confirmed the recovery of a diamond-studded Fabergé pendant that was swallowed by a suspected thief during a daring jewellery heist in Auckland. The pendant, valued at around NZ$33,585 (about $19,300), is a limited-edition piece inspired by the James Bond film Octopussy.
The bizarre incident unfolded on 28 November at Partridge Jewellers in central Auckland. According to authorities, the 32-year-old suspect allegedly pocketed the pendant before swallowing it in an attempt to hide the evidence. He was quickly apprehended and charged with theft, but the pendant’s whereabouts remained a mystery until nature took its course.
For nearly a week, police monitored the man closely, waiting for the pendant to reappear. Officers confirmed that the item was eventually recovered “in a natural manner” after six days of observation. The pendant is now back in police custody and will be returned to the jeweller.
The Fabergé pendant is part of a special collaboration between the luxury brand and the James Bond franchise, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its unusual journey has sparked global headlines and plenty of jokes online, with many dubbing it the “most expensive meal” the suspect will ever have.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the pendant sustained any damage during its ordeal, but the suspect remains in custody and is expected to face court in the coming weeks. Police say the case serves as a reminder that crime doesn’t pay especially when it involves swallowing luxury goods.
