Two More Charged in Louvre jewel Heist
Paris, France – Two additional individuals have been charged in connection with the audacious jewel heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, French authorities announced Friday. This brings the total number of people charged to five, as investigations continue into the theft of priceless artifacts.
Culture Minister Rachida Dati, following a review of the museum’s security, stated that urgent measures are needed to address “a chronic underestimation of intrusion and theft risks” that has persisted for over 20 years. “We can’t continue like this,” she told broadcaster TF1.
An initial report cited inadequate security equipment and “entirely obsolete” intrusion-response protocols. Dati confirmed that “anti-ramming” and “anti-intrusion” devices will be installed around the Louvre before the end of the year, with the first barriers already under installation. She also noted that while the museum’s internal security systems functioned during the theft, “major security flaws” exist outside the building.
The stolen items include an emerald-and-diamond necklace gifted by Napoleon I to empress marie-Louise, and a diamond diadem formerly belonging to Empress eugenie, containing nearly 2,000 diamonds.
Louvre director Laurence des Cars revealed last week that security cameras did not cover the thieves’ entry point, with the sole camera in the area facing away from the balcony used for access.
AFP/Reuters/AP
