In October 2016, Kim Kardashian was held at gunpoint during a violent robbery at the Hôtel de Pourtalès in Paris, where she was staying for Fashion Week. The assailants, later dubbed the "Grandpa Gang" by French media due to the advanced age of several suspects, forced their way into the luxury apartment disguised as police officers. They threatened the concierge at gunpoint to gain access and then stormed Kardashian’s suite around 3 a.m., catching her off guard as she was resting after a long day of events.

The robbers, five masked individuals including men in their 60s and 70s, bound Kardashian’s hands and feet with zip ties and duct tape, gagged her, and carried her into the bathroom. They repeatedly demanded money and specifically targeted her $4 million diamond engagement ring, which had been recently given by then-husband Kanye West. Despite the terrifying ordeal, the robbers apparently did not know who Kardashian was at the time; one of them later admitted they had no personal grudge and saw it purely as a business operation. The thieves also stole other jewelry, cash, and valuables totaling nearly $10 million.

Kardashian tried to call for help but was unable to reach emergency services effectively, as the U.S. 911 number does not work in France. Her security guard was away with her sister, leaving her vulnerable. After the robbers fled on bicycles and on foot, Kardashian managed to free herself from her restraints and contacted her bodyguard. She was deeply traumatized but physically unharmed. The police believe the robbers had inside information about Kardashian’s movements and security, which helped them execute the heist with precision.

The suspects, including Yunice Abbas who admitted involvement, faced trial in Paris in 2025 nearly nine years after the incident. Kardashian was expected to testify in person against the group, which also included accomplices who provided information or helped with the operation. The trial brought renewed attention to the case, highlighting the brazen nature of the robbery and the vulnerability of even high-profile celebrities in such situations.