Thieves have stolen priceless jewelry from the Louvre Museum in Paris during a daring operation that lasted only seven minutes. The incident, which occurred on unassuming Sunday morning, has raised concerns about security at one of the world’s most famous cultural institutions.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed that the robbery took place in the Apollo Room, known for housing the French Crown Jewels and significant treasures, including a collection belonging to Louis XIV. The culprits, reportedly part of a well-organized group, accessed the museum via an external freight elevator positioned on a truck.

Details of the Heist

The thieves ingeniously forced open a window using an angle grinder, managing to escape with several items of jewelry known for their historical and sentimental value. Nuñez described the items as “priceless,” highlighting their inestimable heritage significance beyond mere market value. Eyewitness accounts revealed that three or four individuals were involved in the heist, which was executed with remarkable speed and precision.

Cultural Minister Rachida Dati reported that one piece of jewelry, believed to be the crown of Empress Eugénie, was recovered shortly after the theft. The ornate crown, adorned with 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds, was found nearby but sustained damage during the incident. Additionally, another unidentified piece of jewelry was reportedly recovered.

Security Response

In reaction to the robbery, the Louvre has remained closed to the public as a precautionary measure for the ongoing investigation. French police are examining various pieces of evidence, including the abandoned furniture elevator used by the thieves. The robbery occurred around 9:30 a.m., coinciding with the museum’s opening hours, leading to a swift evacuation of the public without any reported injuries.

A meticulous plan was evident in the execution of the robbery, with officials speculating that the thieves had scouted the location beforehand. Nuñez expressed confidence in law enforcement’s ability to apprehend the culprits and recover the stolen items, citing their experience and effectiveness during the incident.

Public Reaction

This incident marks a rare occurrence of theft at the Louvre, a museum that attracted nearly 8.7 million visitors last year, with a significant number being international tourists. The mayor of Paris Center remarked on the thorough planning behind the heist, noting that such an event had not been witnessed in over a century.

As investigations continue, the Louvre remains a focal point for international attention, underscoring ongoing concerns regarding the security of cultural artifacts in renowned institutions. Future updates will shed light on developments in the case and the museum’s response to this shocking event.