Cagnes-sur-Mer:Two paintings by renowned French artist Auguste Renoir, stolen from a museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer last month, have been successfully recovered by French police.

According to Anadolu Agency, the paintings, titled "Madame Colonna Romano" and "Jeune femme au puits," were found on Thursday, October 8. These works, valued between $9 million and $11.2 million, were taken during a burglary on September 8 at the Renoir Museum, the artist's former home.

During the theft, two burglars entered the museum by cutting a hole in the garden fence. They managed to steal four artworks, leaving two behind as they fled upon the arrival of the police. The stolen paintings were among the museum's most valuable pieces, as noted by the prosecutor's office.

Authorities arrested six individuals in connection with the theft across several locations in the southern Alpes-Maritimes, Herault, and Jura departments. It is believed that two of the suspects directly participated in the burglary.

Cagnes-sur-Mer Mayor Bryan Masson described the suspects as "real professionals," citing their use of helmets, gloves, and masks, as well as their apparent detailed knowledge of the museum. Following the recovery of the paintings, Masson praised the efforts of the Marseille Interregional Specialized Court and law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation.

Masson emphasized the cultural significance of the paintings, stating they are vital to the town's history and heritage, and acknowledged the community's relief following their recovery. The investigation into the organized theft and criminal conspiracy continues.