Robbers Use Chainsaws to Steal Jewellery from Louvre Museum

A dramatic robbery at the Louvre Museum in Paris occurred on Sunday morning when chainsaw-wielding thieves broke in and made off with an undisclosed amount of jewellery. The incident prompted the iconic museum, known as the most visited in the world, to close its doors for the day.

The theft took place between 9:30 and 9:40 am local time (0730 and 0740 GMT). According to a source familiar with the investigation, the robbers arrived on a scooter, armed with small chainsaws, and used a goods lift to reach their targeted room. The precise value of the stolen jewellery is currently being assessed.

Rachida Dati, France’s Minister of Culture, confirmed the break-in on social media platform X, stating, “A robbery took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum. No injuries reported. I’m on site with museum staff and police.” The museum later posted on its official X account that it was closing for “exceptional reasons,” though it did not provide further details when contacted by the Agence France-Presse (AFP).

Impact of the Robbery on the Louvre

The Louvre Museum, which served as the residence of French kings until Louis XIV moved to Versailles in the late 1600s, attracted nine million visitors last year alone. Its worldwide reputation as a cultural jewel makes it a significant target for criminal activity.

This robbery underscores the ongoing challenge of securing high-profile cultural sites. The museum employs around 2,400 staff, representing 100 different nationalities, and has implemented extensive security measures to protect its vast collection of art and artefacts.

The investigation into the robbery is ongoing, with local authorities working to gather evidence and track down the suspects. The swift response from police and museum staff highlights the importance of security protocols at such prestigious locations.

The Louvre’s closure for the day may disrupt planned visits, affecting both tourists and locals who flock to see its renowned exhibitions. As officials assess the situation, the museum’s commitment to safety and security will be paramount in restoring public confidence.

As this story develops, more information will be made available, particularly regarding the value of the stolen items and the measures being taken to prevent future incidents.