The museum was forced to evacuate on Sunday morning after thieves stole nine pieces from the Napoleon’s jewellery collection
The iconic Louvre Museum in Paris has been forced to close after thieve broke in and stole a number of items of jewelry on Sunday morning.
The French Interior Ministry has confirmed that a gang raided the museum as it opened at around 9:30AM.
Rachida Dati, France’s Culture Minister, said an investigation was underway, and that detectives were liaising with museum staff.
There were no reports of injuries and it is unclear what has been stolen from the museum.
Police sources told Le Parisien that “the criminals gained access to the building on the Seine River side, where construction work is underway.”
“They used a freight elevator that leads directly to the targeted room. After breaking windows, two men entered, stealing nine pieces from Napoleon and the Empress’s jewellery collection – a necklace, a brooch, and more,” the report added.
It has been reported that three masked men broke into the museum as it opened after using an outside lift used for renovation work.
They then gained access to the Apollo Gallery on the River Seine side of the gallery.
French police are reportedly focusing their investigation on the south-east corner of the building, where a tall ladder — similar to one used by a fire engine — is propped up against the museum.
It is thought that this is how the thieves accessed the upper floors, via a balcony.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed the details of the heist, and said the robbery took a total of seven minutes.
A list of stolen items is currently being drawn up, but the ministry said they have incalculable historical and cultural value.
The Parisian Public Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that it has opened an investigation into suspected “organised theft and criminal conspiracy to commit a crime”.
It added: “The damage is currently being assessed. Investigations are ongoing”.
The gallery holds what remains of Frances crown jewels.
Reports have stated the looters escaped on moto-scooters after stealing nine pieces of jewellery including a brooch, tiara and a necklace.
On its official X account, the museum said it will remain closed “for exceptional reasons”.
Video on social media showed people leaving the museum in what some described as “total panic”.
France’s culture minister confirmed the robbery but said there were “no injuries to report”.
Writing on social media, Rachida Dati added: “I am on site alongside the museum teams and the police. Investigations are under way”.
This is a breaking story and will be updated.
