Thieves Strike Louvre Museum in Paris, Steal Valuable Jewelry

Robbers infiltrated the Louvre Museum in central Paris on the morning of October 15, 2023, escaping with a quantity of valuable jewellery. According to a source close to the investigation, the exact value of the stolen items is still being assessed. The incident occurred as the museum was opening its doors to visitors, prompting the museum’s immediate closure for the day.

A police source revealed that an unknown number of assailants arrived on scooters equipped with small chainsaws. They utilized a goods lift to access the targeted area within the museum. The Louvre, renowned as the world’s most-visited museum, is home to iconic artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci‘s Mona Lisa.

Rachida Dati, France’s Minister of Culture, confirmed the robbery took place early Sunday morning. In a post on X, she stated, “No injuries were reported. I am on site alongside museum staff and the police. Investigations are ongoing.” The museum’s management declared it would remain closed due to “exceptional reasons” related to the incident.

The theft at the Louvre is particularly alarming given the museum’s significance and the global attention it attracts. As authorities work to piece together the details of the robbery, the incident raises questions about security measures at one of the most famous cultural institutions in the world.

In light of this event, the Louvre has not provided a timeline for when it will reopen to the public. The museum is expected to issue further statements as investigations progress and more information becomes available regarding the stolen items and the circumstances surrounding the heist.