Value of New Year Apple Heist in Paris Cut by Over Half

The final value of Apple phones and computers stolen from a store in central Paris on New Year's Eve has been slashed by more than half, a source close to the investigation said on Thursday.

Initially estimated at about one million euros ($1.3 million), the revised figure lies somewhere around 300,000-400,000 euros' worth of iPhones, iPads and lap-top computers, said the source, who wished to remain anonymous.

Late on Monday, "four or five" armed robbers wearing masks overpowered a security guard and a maintenance worker who were taking a cigarette break outside the shop, located behind the Palais Garnier Opera, about three hours after it closed, the source said.

They slightly injured one employee and loaded several cartons of goods stolen from the basement into a truck parked near the store.

Thousands of police were deployed on the streets of Paris at the time, but were focused on maintaining security among crowds gathered on the Champs Elysees for traditional New Year's Eve festivities.