During a raid, French police stumbled upon a stolen Picasso

French police unexpectedly discovered a work by Pablo Picasso during a raid conducted as part of a drug trafficking investigation. This rare work could be worth several million euros. The investigation has since been expanded to include theft and receiving stolen goods, following the discovery of the painting in a home in Champigny-sur-Marne, east of Paris.

French police had expected to find only a shipment of drugs, but instead stumbled upon an unexpected artistic treasure signed by none other than Pablo Picasso, according to AFP.

According to the French prosecutor’s office, the discovery was made during an operation conducted as part of a drug trafficking investigation. In addition to the painting, investigators also found cannabis resin, luxury clothing, and several thousand euros in cash. The artwork has since been authenticated as a genuine Picasso, but authorities have not specified exactly which work it is.

According to French media, it is likely a portrait of Marie-Thérèse Walter, Picasso’s partner and muse. The painting is believed to have been stolen from an art warehouse in Paris. An employee of the storage company reportedly confessed to the theft and stated that he wanted to highlight the company’s security flaws.

The work is estimated to be worth between 12 and 15 million euros. Picasso’s portraits of Walter are among his most famous works and are often sold at auction for similar amounts.

Four suspects have already been brought before the investigating judge in this case. Additional charges are expected to follow as the investigation continues. A trial is tentatively scheduled for August.