(Paris, 23rd) – A bizarre turn of events unfolded in France after two thieves stole a man’s credit card and used it to buy a lottery ticket—only to win a staggering €500,000 (approximately RM2.31 million). However, before they could claim the prize, the card’s rightful owner intervened, reporting the theft to authorities and alerting the lottery company, which immediately froze the winnings.
Rather than pressing charges, the victim has now made an unexpected offer: he is willing to meet the thieves, claim the prize together, and split the winnings.
A Fortunate Theft?
According to BBC reports, the victim, identified as Jean-David, realized his credit card had been stolen on February 3rd and quickly contacted his bank to block any further transactions. However, before the card was disabled, the thieves managed to purchase cigarettes and a lottery ticket at a local shop.
Jean-David later visited the store and was stunned to learn that the lottery ticket bought with his stolen card had hit the jackpot. Knowing the thieves would soon try to cash in the winnings, he immediately contacted the police, who then informed the French lottery operator, FDJ, resulting in the ticket being frozen.
A Win-Win Situation?
Under French lottery regulations, winners have 30 days to claim their prize. With the deadline fast approaching, the thieves now face a dilemma: stepping forward means risking immediate arrest. This prompted Jean-David to propose an unusual deal—rather than pursuing legal action, he suggested that they claim the prize together and split it evenly.
"If it weren't for me, they wouldn’t have won. At the same time, if it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t have bought that ticket. So, sharing the winnings seems fair," Jean-David stated.
His lawyer also supported the idea, describing it as a unique opportunity for the thieves to turn their lives around. Whether the criminals will take up the offer or disappear remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the clock is ticking.
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