Two men arrested in the investigation into the Drents museum gold heist case have been remanded in custody for a further 90 days by judges in Assen.

The public prosecutor said Douglas W (36) and Bernard Z (35) were part of the group of three who blasted their way into the museum on January 24. In total, seven suspects from Heerhugowaard and the surrounding area have been arrested in connection with the robbery.

The department said in a statement that they do not think the stolen gold, including a priceless helmet, has been melted down and that one of the main suspects retains control of the objects.

If the artifacts are not found, however, the Netherlands could face a multi-million euro claim.

The helmet, which is crafted from almost pure gold and dates from the 5th century BC  is a national Romanian treasure. It was lent to the Drents Museum in Assen as part of the exhibition Dacia – Empire of Gold and Silver.

The two main suspects and the 20-year-old who was allegedly part of the robbery team will appear in court next in July. The 20-year-old is said to have bought the sledgehammer used in the robbery at a local DIY store and was arrested in late April following an undercover operation.

During the hearing, judges urged the two suspects to come clean about the robbery, both of whom have refused to talk despite the wealth of evidence against them.

“Remaining silent might not be the best thing to do and can work against you,” the chairman of the judges said.

The prosecution department says it hopes the trial proper will begin in the second quarter of 2026.