Paris - Nearly nine years after the harrowing armed robbery that left Kim Kardashian traumatized in her Paris hotel apartment, the alleged perpetrators-dubbed the “Grandpa Gang” by French media-are finally facing trial. Kardashian is expected to testify in the high-profile case, which begins this week in Paris.
The 2016 Robbery: A Nightmare in the City of Light
On the night of October 6, 2016, Kardashian was staying at a luxury apartment on Rue Tronchet after attending Paris Fashion Week events. Masked assailants, some disguised as police officers, forcibly entered the building and held her at gunpoint. They stole nearly $10 million in jewelry, including a $4 million diamond engagement ring gifted by then-husband Kanye West.
The robbers escaped on bicycles and on foot, disappearing into the early morning Paris streets. The incident shocked the world, not only because of Kardashian’s celebrity status but also due to the brazen nature of the attack. The victim remained unusually silent publicly for months, and her family refrained from commenting.
The ‘Grandpa Gang’ and the Investigation
The group, mostly elderly men, earned their nickname because of their age, despite one female suspect. Among them is Aom Aitedache, identified by investigators as the mastermind behind the heist, though he denies the charges. Court documents reveal that the gang meticulously planned the robbery by monitoring Kardashian’s social media posts, including a viral photo of her engagement ring shared days before the attack.
One suspect, Yunice Abbas, openly embraced his role in the crime, even authoring a book titled “J’ai séquestré Kim Kardashian” (“I kidnapped Kim Kardashian”), where he downplays the severity of the offense and criticizes Kardashian’s flaunting of wealth.
Trial and Testimony
Out of the original twelve charged, ten defendants are on trial this week. One suspect has died, and another, Pierre Bouianere, 80, faces separate proceedings likely to be dismissed due to health reasons. The defendants face charges including armed robbery and conspiracy.
Kardashian’s attorney confirmed she is preparing to testify, expressing respect for the French judicial system and gratitude for the dignified treatment she has received. Her testimony is expected to provide crucial insight into the trauma and details of the crime.