Thieves executed a seven-minute Louvre heist at the Paris museum on Sunday, stealing priceless jewels from the Apollo Gallery before escaping on motorbikes.
A Major and Rapid Robbery
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the incident as a “major robbery” that “lasted seven minutes.” The crew of thieves escaped on motorbikes after the rapid theft.
The museum, which houses over 33,000 works, announced its closure for the day for “exceptional reasons” in a post on X. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Details of the Louvre Heist
Nuñez stated the thieves “entered from the outside using a basket lift” and “a disc cutter” to breach glass panes. They gained access through a section of the museum under construction along the Seine River.
From there, the crew used a freight elevator to reach a room within the historic Apollo Gallery. This gallery is known for housing part of the stolen French Crown Jewels.
What Was Stolen from the Louvre
Authorities confirmed that nine pieces from the jewelry collection of Napoleon and the Empress were stolen. This incident is now considered a significant Louvre Apollo Gallery robbery.
Among the stolen items was a crown believed to belong to Empress Eugénie. The damaged Empress Eugenie crown was later discovered abandoned outside the museum.
Investigation and Historical Significance
The Interior Ministry announced that an investigation into the robbery has begun. “A detailed list of the stolen items is being compiled,” the ministry stated.
French officials emphasized the cultural loss. “Beyond their market value, these items have inestimable heritage and historical value,” the ministry added.
