Abstract: A locking element for connecting two chain links is comprised of two elongated locking members each having a recess and two end portions spaced from one another. The locking members can engage one another in which position the one end portion of the one locking member engages the other end portion of the other locking member and vice versa, in one and another planes. The recesses of the locking members together form an inner circumferentially closed recess in which the chain links can move. The locking members can be disengaged from one another, in which position the chain links can be withdrawn from the inner recess. The above planes are offset relative to one another so that during movement of the locking members between the above two positions the chain links received in the respective recesses are moved in planes parallel to the above planes of the engagement of the end portions of the locking members.