Photo: Shutterstock Stunning Jewel Heist in Paris: Royal jewels, including crown diamonds and other valuable items, were stolen in a heist at the Louvre that resulted in the museum losing jewelry worth millions of euros in a matter of minutes.
Two advanced security display cases were breached, and from them, items of high value and historical significance were stolen. These jewels are referred to as "Napoleon’s Jewelry" due to being worn by Napoleon I and III and their spouses.
As reported yesterday, the museum was closed to visitors following the midday heist. This morning, it will reopen at 09:00 AM (Paris time). As of now, the thieves have not been captured.
Partial List of Stolen Jewels
Diadem from the jewelry of Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense
Necklace from Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense’s sapphire collection
Earring from the same sapphire set of Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense
Emerald necklace from Marie-Louise’s jewelry
Pair of emerald earrings from Marie-Louise’s collection
Decorative brooch in reliquary style
Empress Eugénie’s diadem
Large chest decoration ribbon of Empress Eugénie (brooch)
"Alarm Was Triggered, Thieves Acted Quickly"
Louvre officials continue to explain how the robbery took place. According to the official museum statement, alarms located on the exterior window of the Apollo Gallery and within the display cases themselves were activated. The break-in was notably fast and aggressive.
It was further stated that the five security personnel present in adjacent wings responded immediately following the safety protocol - contacting security forces and prioritizing the protection of visitors and staff.
The museum further noted that "thanks to the professionalism and quick response of the museum staff, the burglars were forced to flee, leaving behind two items they attempted to steal - Empress Eugénie’s diadem and the large brooch - which were returned to the museum. A getaway vehicle used by the criminals was found and neutralized due to the intervention of the Louvre’s security patrol, but the thieves themselves managed to escape."
The culture minister expressed gratitude to the Louvre museum staff for their prompt and professional response. She noted that under the "Louvre - A New Era" project announced by President Macron last January, a new security model is now being implemented, which includes upgrading security systems with the deployment of next-generation cameras, an advanced perimeter detection system, and a new command and control center.
The French police have launched an investigation into "theft by an organized gang and criminal collaboration for the purpose of crime," which has been transferred to the police unit combating organized robbery, BRB.