Thieves Strike Louvre Museum in Paris, Steal Valuables During Opening

Robbers targeted the renowned Louvre Museum in Paris on the morning of October 15, 2023, making off with a significant quantity of jewellery. According to a source close to the investigation, the exact value of the stolen items is still being assessed.

A police official revealed that the assailants used scooters and arrived armed with small chainsaws. They gained access to the museum’s goods lift, which allowed them to reach the specific area they had planned to rob. The theft occurred just as the museum was opening for the day, prompting an immediate lockdown.

In a statement on social media platform X, French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati confirmed that the robbery took place during operational hours. “No injuries were reported. I am on site alongside museum staff and the police. Investigations are ongoing,” she wrote.

The Louvre, recognized as the world’s most-visited museum, has announced it will remain closed for the day due to “exceptional reasons.” This closure affects thousands of visitors who were expected to view its celebrated collection, which includes masterpieces like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and other significant works of art.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working diligently to gather more information and secure the area. The museum’s security measures and protocols will likely come under scrutiny as questions arise about how such a breach could occur in one of the most famous cultural institutions in the world.

The incident has sent shockwaves through both the local community and the international cultural sector, highlighting the ongoing challenges of safeguarding valuable art in an era of rising crime. As details emerge, the art world will be watching closely to see how officials respond and what measures will be implemented to prevent future thefts.