Fact Check: No weapons were used in the $100 million jewellery heist.

Fact Check: "No weapons were used in the $100 million jewellery heist."

What We Know

In July 2022, a significant jewellery heist occurred in California, where seven men were charged with stealing approximately $100 million worth of gold, diamonds, and luxury watches from a Brinks truck. The robbery took place at a rest stop in Lebec, California, while the truck was parked and the drivers were temporarily away from the vehicle. According to the Department of Justice, the suspects tracked the truck after it left a jewellery show and followed it for about 300 miles before executing the theft. Importantly, the indictment and various reports indicate that the robbers did not use any weapons during the heist, which was confirmed by officials involved in the case (BBC, AP News, Washington Post).

Analysis

The claim that "no weapons were used in the $100 million jewellery heist" is supported by multiple credible sources. Reports from the BBC, AP News, and NBC News consistently state that the robbers executed the heist without the use of firearms or any other weapons. This detail is crucial as it distinguishes this robbery from many others where violence is a factor.

The sources reporting on the heist are reputable news organizations, which adds to their reliability. The BBC and AP News are known for their rigorous journalistic standards and fact-checking processes. The information provided in these reports aligns with the official statements from law enforcement and the Department of Justice, which further corroborates the claim.

While the indictment does not specify the exact method used to gain access to the truck, it does note that the exterior padlock was likely sawed off, indicating a non-violent approach to the theft (Washington Post). This reinforces the assertion that the heist was carried out without weapons.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that no weapons were used in the $100 million jewellery heist is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. All reports confirm that the robbery was executed without any firearms or violent confrontations, making the claim accurate.