Louvre Museum Heist: Priceless Royal Jewels Stolen in Daring Daylight Raid

A team of thieves stole eight priceless 19th-century royal jewels from the Louvre Museum in Paris. The brazen robbery occurred on Sunday morning. It took just seven minutes to execute.

The criminals used a furniture hoist to access the Apollo Gallery. They smashed display cases and fled on high-powered scooters. French authorities have launched a major investigation to find the culprits.

Inside the Seven-Minute Robbery

The thieves entered the museum shortly after it opened. They targeted the gallery housing the French crown jewels. According to AFP, they used cutting tools to break through a window.

The entire operation was swift and violent. Museum security guards responded immediately but were unable to stop the escape. One piece, the crown of Empress Eugénie, was dropped and damaged during the getaway.

The Stolen Royal Treasures

France’s Ministry of Culture confirmed the theft of eight heritage objects. The items are considered to be of inestimable value. The collection included pieces belonging to Empress Marie-Louise and Queen Marie-Amélie.

Among the stolen artifacts were a diamond tiara and a sapphire necklace. A large corsage bow and a reliquary brooch were also taken. The historical and cultural loss is significant for France.

The stolen jewels represent a key part of France’s royal history. Their financial value is difficult to estimate due to their uniqueness. The incident has sparked a serious review of security at French cultural institutions.

The investigation into the Louvre Museum heist continues as international art recovery units are alerted. Authorities are determined to recover these national treasures and bring the thieves to justice.

Thought you’d like to know

What jewels were stolen from the Louvre?

The thieves took eight 19th-century royal pieces. These included a tiara and sapphire necklace from Queen Marie-Amélie. They also stole an emerald necklace and earrings belonging to Empress Marie-Louise.

How did the thieves break into the Louvre?

They used a furniture hoist to reach the Apollo Gallery window. Cutting equipment was then used to smash the glass and access display cases. The entire operation was completed in just seven minutes.

Has anything like this happened at the Louvre before?

Yes, the Louvre has been targeted in the past. The most famous prior theft was the Mona Lisa in 1911. A Corot painting was also stolen from the museum in 1998 and never recovered.

What is being done to find the stolen jewels?

A team of 60 investigators is working on the case. International art crime units have been notified. The Paris prosecutor’s office is leading the intensive search.

Why was security unable to prevent this theft?

The robbery was exceptionally fast and violent. The Interior Minister acknowledged security weak spots. An urgent review of museum protection protocols is now underway.