On Saturday, Oct. 19, thieves broke into the Louvre and seized eight imperial jewels worth €88 million, sparking a large police investigation and a review of museum security.
Brash Theft at the Louvre
On the evening of October 19, a daring robbery took place at one of the world’s most guarded museums. Eight imperial jewels were taken from the Louvre’s vaults.
Paris prosecutors report the loss at €88 million, a staggering figure that highlights the financial impact but not the historic damage caused by the theft.
Investigators Track Hundreds of Clues
More than a hundred police officers secured the scene, collecting over 150 samples and fingerprints.
While the authorities continue to pursue the four known perpetrators, they suspect a larger organized group may be behind the crime. The possibility of involvement from Louvre staff is also being examined, though no evidence has yet emerged.
Security Review and Tensions Within the Museum
The French Ministry of Culture and Interior ordered a safety audit of the Louvre’s protocols.
Louvre director Laurence des Cars submitted her resignation to President Emmanuel Macron, a move that was reportedly declined by the Élysée. Prosecutor Laure Beccuau urged thieves not to destroy the jewels, warning they will never receive such sums for doing so.
