"Stolen: Heist of the Century" - Netflix's Thrilling Diamond Caper

"Stolen: Heist of the Century" is a documentary about the 2003 Antwerp diamond robbery, which saw an estimated $100 million in U.S. dollars stolen. Former commander Agim De Bruycker and detective Patrick Peys recount the events, while Leonardo Notarbartolo, a Sicilian criminal, denies being the mastermind. The documentary is a straightforward retelling of the events with minimal embellishment, relying on the recollections of those involved.

The documentary "Stolen: Heist of the Century," premiering on Netflix today, August 8, delves into the intricate details of one of the most daring heists in history. The film chronicles the 2003 Antwerp diamond robbery, where an estimated $100 million in U.S. dollars was stolen from the Antwerp Diamond Center's vault. The documentary features interviews with key figures, including former commander Agim De Bruycker and detective Patrick Peys, providing a straightforward retelling of the events.

The heist, often referred to as "the heist of the century," was orchestrated by a gang of thieves known as "The School of Turin." The group successfully breached a vault that was considered unbreakable, protected by 10 layers of security, including infrared heat detectors, magnetic fields, seismic sensors, and a lock with 100 million possible combinations [1]. The thieves managed to access 109 of the 189 safety deposit boxes, stealing millions of dollars worth of loose diamonds and gold.

Leonardo Notarbartolo, a Sicilian criminal, was apprehended after returning to his office in the Antwerp Diamond Center building following the robbery. His DNA matched rubbish left behind by the robbers, including a half-eaten sandwich. Notarbartolo was found guilty of being the mastermind behind the heist and was sentenced to ten years in prison. Three of his accomplices received five years each [1].

The documentary offers never-before-seen interviews and access, providing a unique perspective on the events. It is a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts and those interested in the intricacies of high-stakes heists.

References:
[1] https://www.unilad.com/film-and-tv/netflix/diamond-heist-netflix-documentary-grok-recommends-462667-20250807