KISHINEV, October 22 (RAPSI) - Three of six Romanians charged with a massive art heist involving the theft of works by Monet, Picasso, Gaugin, and others from a Dutch gallery on Tuesday pleaded guilty in court, Romanian news agency Mediafax reports.

The proceedings against six Romanians were opened on August 13 before being promptly adjourned until September 10, reportedly to provide more time for consideration of legal issues.

In all, the heist was allegedly carried out over the course of less than three minutes in Rotterdam's Kunsthal Museum. Prosecutors reportedly allege that the loot totaled EUR 18 million, whereas art experts initially claimed that they could be worth as much as EUR 100 million.

The AFP quoted the indictment as having stated, "The theft was carried out according to a meticulous plan." The indictment then reportedly added, "the two responsible for the raid were Radu Dogaru, who was also the leader and the organiser of the criminal gang, and Adrian Procop."

Dogaru is reportedly being investigated for human trafficking and murder as well.

Dogaru's mother initially told police that she had burned all of the paintings in a stove in a bid to destroy the evidence, but later denied the claim. She faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

According to the Criminal Code of Romania, criminals fully admitted stealing can get lighter punishment than provided for by law. But all the defendants must be questioned separately.