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France Orders Louvre Security Overhaul After €88 Million Heist

A ministerial review found the museum had underestimated theft risks for over 20 years.

Overview

  • Culture Minister Rachida Dati said new anti-vehicle barriers and other immediate protections will be in place before the end of the year.
  • The commissioned assessment flagged completely outdated response protocols and cited staffing shortfalls that weakened safeguards.
  • Police have detained seven suspects, with two giving partial confessions, while the investigation remains active.
  • Most of the eight stolen jewels have not been recovered, though Empress Eugénie’s crown was later found damaged near the museum.
  • The October 19 theft lasted under ten minutes, using a lifting platform and an angle grinder to open two cases before a getaway on motor scooters.