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Louvre Heist Probe Focuses on Ex-Museum Guard as Years of Security Failures Come to Light

Prosecutors say the four detainees are not seasoned organized criminals.

Overview

  • Four suspects remain in custody, including Abdoulaye N., 39, a social media figure and former guard at the Pompidou Center who was arrested on October 25 in Aubervilliers.
  • Investigators say his DNA was found on a display case, gloves, a reflective vest, and pliers at the scene, and prosecutors report he has partially admitted involvement.
  • Authorities describe the group as petty offenders and are exploring whether an external planner directed the theft.
  • The raid lasted under seven minutes, with attackers using a stolen truck’s extendable ladder and lift to reach a first-floor window before fleeing on motorbikes, including a Yamaha TMax.
  • ANSSI warned the Louvre in 2014 and 2015 about weak passwords and obsolete security systems, and procurement records indicate outdated software persisted through 2025, though officials have not confirmed a link to the heist; reports differ on the haul’s size and value.