SUSPECTS NABBED IN CHASE AFTER JEWEL HEIST

Police in Paris caught three suspected armed robbers after opening fire on their car as they made their getaway from a US$12 million jewelry heist at a Bulgari store on Tuesday.

Three individuals, wearing sharp suits and armed with guns, robbed the recently revamped boutique on the Place Vendome in central Paris where the Ritz hotel is located, shortly before midday, police said.

The three fled in a car while four accomplices took flight on scooters. Police fired shots at the car, forcing the trio to flee on foot.

The three were arrested after ditching some of their loot, an officer at the scene said, while a manhunt was under way for the four who left on scooters.

Bulgari, which is owned by Bernard Arnault's LVMH, said no one was hurt.

The historic Place Vendome is regarded as the heart of French luxury. Labels including Chanel, Boucheron and Van Cleef & Arpels have invested considerably in prestigious flagships lining the square.