Turkish police detain Mexican suspect in Taiwan jewelry theft

ISTANBUL

Turkish police have detained a Mexican man who is wanted for his involvement in the theft of $6.6 million worth of jewelry from a gem fair in Taiwan, Taiwanese media reported on Nov. 8.

Lee Wen-Chang, head of the Taipei City Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, said one of five suspects accused of stealing jewelry from the 2017 Taiwan Jewelry & Gem Fair was apprehended in Turkey, Focus Taiwan reported on its website.

“The Mexican man is currently being held by Turkish police while Taiwan works with relevant agencies to have him extradited for further questioning,” Lee was quoted as saying.

The other four suspects, who are believed to be part of an 11-member criminal gang, went to Hong Kong, the report said.

According to Focus Taiwan, the suspects are presumed to be Mexican or Colombian nationals.

The stolen jewelry consisted of three loose diamonds, a sapphire brooch and three jade rings.

According to the police, members of the group visited the Taiwanese fair three years ago but no crimes were committed, the report said.