Masked thieves staged a dramatic daylight robbery at Paris’ Louvre Museum on October 19, using a crane to smash an upstairs window and steal pieces from France’s crown jewels collection before fleeing on motorbikes.
The heist, lasting just six minutes, reignited concerns about security at the world’s most visited museum. President Emmanuel Macron called it «an attack on a heritage that we cherish because it is our History,» vowing to recover the stolen treasures.
Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said four unarmed robbers threatened guards with angle grinders before entering the Galerie d’Apollon. Eight objects were stolen, while one, the crown of Empress Eugénie, was dropped during their escape. The thieves ignored the Regent Diamond, worth over $60 mln.
The case has been assigned to a specialised police unit focused on high-profile art crimes. Beccuau said organised crime was the main line of inquiry, noting the jewels could be used to launder criminal proceeds.
The Louvre, which drew 8.7 mln visitors in 2024, closed for the day following the theft. Culture Minister Rachida Dati said the break-in showed the need for stronger protection, adding, «Today, it’s organised crime — professionals.»
