Paris’ Louvre Museum went into lockdown following a daring heist where thieves stole France’s crown jewels. The gang, described as highly organized, used power tools to break into the museum and swiftly escaped on scooters with eight valuable pieces of jewelry.
Authorities have initiated a widespread manhunt for the culprits, who meticulously planned the major operation, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. President Emmanuel Macron has assured that the thieves will be apprehended, and the stolen items will be recovered.
The robbery occurred just after the museum opened on Sunday when four masked individuals utilized a vehicle-mounted lift to access a balcony near the Galerie d’Apollon. They quickly entered the museum, prompting the evacuation of visitors as alarms sounded throughout the premises.
The thieves rapidly stole royal treasures from display cabinets before attempting to set fire to their vehicle outside, which was prevented by a vigilant staff member. The entire raid lasted a mere seven minutes, with witnesses describing scenes of chaos as the Louvre was evacuated and secured.
The stolen treasures included tiaras, necklaces, earrings, and brooches, all dating back to the 19th century and once owned by French royalty and imperial figures. The stolen items have immense historical and cultural significance, adorned with thousands of diamonds and rare gemstones.
Video footage captured one of the thieves calmly breaking into a display cabinet at the Louvre, dressed in black and a high-visibility jacket. The group posed as workmen during the heist, which lasted only seven minutes.
In the past, the Louvre has experienced significant security breaches, including the famous theft of the Mona Lisa in 1911 and the stolen Le Chemin de Sevres painting in 1998. Recent thefts in French museums highlight ongoing security challenges, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection of cultural treasures.