'Grandpa robbers' among ten to face trial for Kim Kardashian Paris heist

Ten people, including several elderly suspects known as the "grandpa robbers", are set to go on trial in Paris next week for the armed robbery of Kim Kardashian during fashion week in 2016.

The high-profile case involves accusations of a $9 million jewellery heist, with the reality television star expected to appear in court to testify.

The trial, scheduled to last nearly a month, centres on the early morning raid at a luxury apartment in central Paris where Kardashian was staying during fashion week.

Wearing police-style uniforms and ski masks, the robbers allegedly forced a concierge at gunpoint to lead them to Kardashian’s suite, where she was tied up and robbed at gunpoint.

The assailants made off with a $4 million engagement ring from then-husband Kanye West (now Ye) and other high-value jewellery.

Though physically unharmed, Kardashian later described the ordeal as deeply traumatic. Speaking to David Letterman in 2020, she recalled the robbers shouting "the ring, the ring" and her fear for her life.

Kardashian’s legal team confirmed she will not issue public comments ahead of the proceedings. “At this time, Ms. Kardashian is preserving her testimony for the court and jury,” her lawyers stated.

Five of the ten accused face charges of armed robbery and kidnapping, while the rest are charged with complicity or unauthorised possession of weapons.

Among the accused is 71-year-old Yunice Abbas, who admitted to participating in the heist but denied knowledge that firearms would be used. He also denied being the ringleader.

Abbas, a former convict, told French broadcaster TF1 that he believed the robbery was his “last big job” after struggling financially as a pensioner. He said he was unaware the jewels belonged to a global celebrity.

According to prosecutors, the suspects escaped on bicycles with an estimated $9 million in jewellery. Abbas fell during the getaway, dropping some of the stolen items on the street.

French police used DNA traces left on plastic bindings used to tie Kardashian’s wrists to track down the suspects in early 2017.

The discreet Paris apartment block where the crime took place is known for its celebrity clientele, with nightly rates reaching €15,000 (£12,800).

The case has drawn international attention and renewed focus on the vulnerability of public figures travelling abroad, as well as the audacity of organised robbery operations involving older suspects.