The notoriously fashion-conscious rapper Lil’ Kim lost some of her most precious accessories – $250,000 worth to be precise – on Friday while waiting to fly to Los Angeles for the BET Awards.
Kim was boarding an 8:45 a.m. flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York when she noticed she’d accidentally checked a carry-on bag that contained her jewels, including her trademark crowned “B” necklace that bears the logo of her label, Queen Bee Records. The flight was delayed to have the carry-on removed from baggage hold, but by then some of the jewels were missing, according to a spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (which manages JFK Airport). The rapper’s attorney, Mel Sachs, told the Associated Press that the bag appeared “tampered with.”
In addition to her Queen Bee necklace, another of Kim’s pieces – platinum dog tags inlaid with yellow diamonds – was reported stolen. Port Authority police are investigating the case in conjunction with the Queens District Attorney’s office.
The rapper is expected to release a statement about the incident Monday afternoon (June 23).
The Queen Bee necklace is a signature piece of bling that Kim has worn in several videos, fashion shoots, and during performances. The Louis Vuitton bag contained about half a million dollars in jewels, including earrings, rings and other jewelry.
Kim is nominated for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist at the third annual BET Awards, which will take place Tuesday at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. She’s up against Trina, Missy Elliott, Eve and Ms. Jade in the category.
