Details Emerge from the Louvre Heist: A Bold Theft of Priceless Jewels
The Louvre Museum in Paris is currently closed as police investigate a shocking heist that targeted France's priceless crown jewels. Thieves broke into the world\'s most visited museum in broad daylight, escaping with eight highly valuable pieces of jewellery.
The robbery occurred shortly after the museum opened to visitors on Sunday between 09:30 and 09:40 local time. Four thieves used a vehicle-mounted mechanical lift to access the museum, cutting through glass panes to enter the Galerie d\'Apollon, where they threatened guards and stole items from display cases.
A preliminary investigation revealed that many areas of the museum lacked CCTV coverage, enabling the robbers to execute their plan with relative ease. French Senator Natalie Goulet expressed her disappointment, highlighting issues with the museum\'s security systems.
How did the theft unfold?
Images from the crime scene showed a vehicle-mounted ladder leading to a first-floor window from where the thieves gained entry. Two armed robbers entered, evacuated the guards, and proceeded to smash display cases containing valuable historical artefacts.
The authorities noted that around 60 investigators are working on the case, exploring leads and examining escape routes captured by existing CCTV footage. The brazen nature of the theft has led to heightened political tensions, with leaders condemning the incident as an attack on the nation’s cultural heritage.
What jewels were stolen?
The stolen items, all from the 19th century, included diadems, necklaces, earrings, and brooches that belonged to French royalty. The Ministry of Culture confirmed that among the missing treasures are:
- A tiara and brooch belonging to Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III
- An emerald necklace and a pair of emerald earrings from Empress Marie Louise
- A set of jewels from Queen Marie-Amelie and Queen Hortense
- A famous brooch known as the reliquary brooch
Notably, two additional items—including Empress Eugénie's crown—were later discovered near the museum, likely dropped by the assailants during their escape.
When will the Louvre reopen?
The Louvre is currently closed to visitors while investigations continue. The museum has assured those with booking tickets will receive refunds. Security is tight around the museum's famous glass pyramid entrance, with no definitive reopening date announced yet.
What are people saying about the robbery?
This incident has stirred public outrage, with President Emmanuel Macron declaring the robbery an attack on French history. As the investigation unfolds, pressure mounts on the museum to enhance security and prevent similar incidents in the future.