Thieves Execute Daring Heist at Louvre, Steal Priceless Jewels

Thieves executed a bold heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris early Sunday, stealing priceless jewels and causing the iconic institution to close for the day. The robbery occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time (03:30 a.m. ET), just as the museum was opening to visitors. According to French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, the perpetrators used a ladder attached to a truck to gain access.

The thieves targeted the Galerie d’Apollon, where they reportedly smashed an exterior window using a disc cutter. They made off with jewels described as being of “inestimable value.” Witnesses indicated that the entire operation lasted around seven minutes, suggesting meticulous planning beforehand. The culprits fled the scene on motor-scooters, highlighting the precision of their execution.

Investigation Underway

In the aftermath of the theft, police cordoned off the area to preserve evidence. “It was necessary to evacuate people,” Nuñez stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the crime scene for investigators. The Paris public prosecutor’s office has initiated an investigation into organized theft and criminal conspiracy related to the incident.

French Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed on social media platform X that no injuries were reported during the robbery. She was present at the museum alongside police and staff to oversee the ongoing investigations. The official account of the Louvre announced that the museum would remain closed for the rest of the day due to “exceptional reasons.”

The Louvre, known as the world’s most-visited museum, houses numerous cultural treasures, including the famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci. It is rare for the museum to close its doors; such closures typically occur during significant events like wars, pandemics, or strikes. Notably, the museum was also shut down in June due to staff strikes over concerns regarding the impact of mass tourism on the facility.

With its extensive collection and historical significance, the Louvre remains a key attraction in Paris. The recent robbery raises concerns regarding security measures in place to protect its invaluable artifacts. Investigators will likely scrutinize the museum’s protocols as they work to apprehend the culprits behind this audacious crime.