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Interpol Launches Global Hunt After Daring Louvre Jewels Heist

Thieves posing as workers used a truck platform to breach the Galerie d’Apollon, escaping within minutes without injuries.

Overview

  • Paris prosecutors opened an organized-robbery investigation, with forensic work and surveillance footage under review to identify the suspects.
  • Interpol issued a worldwide alert and added the objects to stolen‑art databases to deter trafficking and aid recovery.
  • Authorities say eight Crown collection pieces were stolen; Empress Eugénie’s crown was found nearby in damaged condition, with the rest still missing.
  • The Louvre closed temporarily to preserve evidence and process refunds as officials ordered security reviews and pledged upgrades, including new cameras and dedicated funding.
  • Officials report the operation lasted about seven minutes, involved breaking vitrines with cutting tools after entry via a truck‑mounted platform, and the perpetrators fled on motorcycles without using weapons.