NZ man swallows $19k Fabergé egg, police recover it

Authorities in New Zealand have confirmed the retrieval of a diamond-encrusted Faberg egg locket that a man swallowed during an attempted theft. The item, valued at NZ$33,585 ($19,300; 14,600), was recovered without medical intervention, police reported.

The 32-year-old suspect was apprehended at Patridge Jewellers in central Auckland shortly after ingesting the locket. According to the jeweller, the locket is adorned with 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires, and contains a miniature 18-carat gold octopus inside.

The man is facing theft charges. Following the incident, police conducted a medical assessment and have been monitoring him continuously while in custody, citing their duty of care given the circumstances.

Known as the "Octopussy egg," the locket draws inspiration from the 1983 James Bond film, which features a storyline involving a Faberg egg heist. Faberg, a prestigious jeweller founded in Russia over 200 years ago, is celebrated for its intricate eggs crafted from precious metals and gemstones.

The suspect is scheduled to appear in court again on 8 December. Court documents indicate he has additional charges, including allegedly stealing an iPad from the same store on 12 November, as well as taking cat litter and flea control products valued at NZ$100 from a private residence the following day.

Author: Sophia Brooks