Louvre Heist: Thieves Steal Priceless Jewels in Daring Seven-Minute Raid

A major robbery struck the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday. The heist occurred around 9:30 a.m. local time. Thieves stole several pieces of priceless jewellery from the historic collection.

France’s cultural minister, Rachida Dati, confirmed the incident. The museum was closed for the entire day following the brazen theft. No injuries were reported during the event.

Inside the Daring Seven-Minute Operation

The thieves executed their plan with stunning precision. According to Reuters, they used a basket lift to access the museum’s exterior. This targeted an area currently under construction.

They entered through the Seine-facing facade. A disc cutter was used to slice through a window pane. The entire robbery was completed in just seven minutes.

The intruders then used a freight elevator. This gave them direct access to the Apollo Gallery. They fled the scene on two-wheelers after taking the jewels.

Assessing the Stolen Treasure and Security Fallout

The stolen items were from the Napoleon collection. France’s Interior Minister called the jewellery “priceless.” The thieves focused on two specific displays within the gallery.

Early reports suggest nine pieces were stolen. One jewel, believed to be from Empress Eugénie’s crown, was found broken outside. The Apollo Gallery is known for housing the French Crown Jewels.

This incident raises serious security questions. The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum. Forensic work is now underway to trace the culprits.

This sophisticated Louvre heist reveals significant vulnerabilities in one of the world’s most secure institutions. The search for the stolen treasures and the criminals behind this audacious theft continues.

Thought you’d like to know

What was stolen in the Louvre heist?

Thieves stole several pieces of jewellery from the Napoleon collection. The items are considered priceless by authorities. One jewel was later found broken outside the museum.

How did the thieves get into the Louvre?

They used a basket lift to reach an exterior construction area. Then they cut through a window pane with a disc cutter. A freight elevator provided direct access to the targeted gallery.

Was anyone hurt during the robbery?

No injuries were reported during the incident. The museum was evacuated after the discovery. Officials confirmed all visitors and staff were safe.

Has the Louvre been robbed before?

Yes, the most famous prior theft was the Mona Lisa in 1911. That painting was missing for two years before its recovery. The museum has seen other attempted robberies over the years.

What is the Apollo Gallery?

It is a historic room within the Louvre Museum. It displays a selection of the French Crown Jewels. The gallery was the specific target of the thieves.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Agence France-Presse (AFP), Associated Press (AP)