Paris, France – Following a daring daylight heist that exposed critical security vulnerabilities, the Louvre Museum has moved its most valuable jewels - including pieces belonging to Napoleon adn joséphine – to a highly secure, undisclosed vault, officials confirmed today, February 27, 2024. The brazen theft of eight historic pieces on Tuesday has triggered a major security review and prompted immediate action to safeguard the remaining collection.
The stolen jewels, part of the museum’s collection of historic crowns and precious stones, were taken by a team of highly organized criminals who descended into the museum via a mechanical ladder from a roof access point. While the estimated value of the stolen items remains undisclosed, experts suggest the loss represents a significant blow to France’s cultural heritage and a major embarrassment for the world-renowned museum. The incident has raised questions about the Louvre’s security protocols, particularly given its status as a top global tourist destination attracting millions of visitors annually.
According to police sources, the thieves specifically targeted items from the Galerie d’Apollon, a section housing the French Crown Jewels.Footage circulating on social media shows two individuals rappelling down a ladder, seemingly undisturbed, before making off with the artifacts. A criminal examination is underway, led by the Brigade de Répression du Banditisme (BRB), France’s national organized crime unit.
“We are dealing with professionals,” stated a source within the BRB, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The precision and speed of the operation suggest meticulous planning and inside knowledge.”
The Louvre has been contacted for comment but has released a statement confirming the transfer of jewels and a commitment to bolstering security measures. The museum remains open to the public,but access to the Galerie d’Apollon is currently restricted. The incident is likely to have lasting repercussions for security protocols at museums and cultural institutions worldwide, prompting a reevaluation of vulnerability assessments and preventative measures.
