Thieves Execute Daylight Heist at Paris Louvre, Steal Priceless Jewels

A gang of thieves executed a daring heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, stealing jewels described as priceless. The robbery occurred on the morning of March 31, 2024, just after the museum opened to the public. According to French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, the masked suspects took only a few minutes to carry out the operation, swiftly escaping with their loot.

The thieves reportedly used a mechanical ladder to reach a first-floor window of the Galeria d’Apollon, a section of the museum known for housing France’s royal jewels. Once inside, they smashed display cases and fled on scooters. Although officials have not confirmed the exact items stolen, the gallery is renowned for its historical treasures.

Witnesses observed a vehicle-mounted extendable ladder positioned near the museum, suggesting it may have been left behind by the perpetrators. French media indicated that the thieves used small chainsaws to facilitate their entry. Minister Nuñez stated that approximately three to four individuals were involved in the incident, which left no injuries reported.

The theft prompted the immediate evacuation of the Louvre, which remained closed for the entire day. Police were deployed to manage the situation, turning away tourists who were unaware of the closure. American tourists Jim and Joan Carpenter were among those caught up in the chaos. They recounted how security personnel quickly ushered them out as they approached Leonardo da Vinci‘s famous painting, the Mona Lisa. “There was lots of confusion,” Mr. Carpenter noted, while his wife remarked on the hurried exit through an emergency door.

According to reports from the French interior ministry, a significant item—a 19th century crown belonging to Empress Eugenie—was later found near the museum. It was described as having been damaged during the escape. The ornate crown, adorned with golden eagles, features 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds. Minister Nuñez emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the stolen items, stating they possess an “immeasurable heritage value.”

The Louvre, the world’s most visited museum, faced a challenge in managing the aftermath of the heist. Tourists arriving at the museum were met with police barricades and an atmosphere of uncertainty. “I knew something was up because of the way they swept the whole museum,” Mrs. Carpenter shared, reflecting on the unusual circumstances surrounding their visit.

As the investigation into the theft continues, the Louvre Museum remains a focal point of attention. Officials are working diligently to recover the stolen jewels and enhance security measures to prevent future incidents. The art community and the public alike await further developments in this high-profile case, which has captured both local and international interest.