Armed robbers steal millions worth of jewels in Ritz Hotel raid in Paris

Armed robbers have carried out a daring raid at the luxury Ritz Hotel in Paris, seizing millions worth of jewels.

The famous Ritz Hotel in Paris

French police said five thieves, some of them armed, have stolen goods from a jewellery shop worth “an important sum”.

The French TV station BFM reported that £4.19 million worth of jewels had been taken.

It was not clear whether any of the loot has been recovered.

The men armed with axes smashed a window at the shop inside the hotel about 6pm GMT.

No-one was injured in the heist. Three robbers have been arrested, with the other two escaping.

The luxurious five-star Ritz is located in Place Vendôme, in Paris’ historical first district on the right bank of the river Seine. The ministry of justice lies next door.

The hotel includes a gallery shopping area near its rear entrance, which it says hosts five shops and 95 “showcases”, selling jewellery, watches and luxury clothing.