Overview
- France’s Court of Auditors released a report completed before the robbery that faults the museum for slow upgrades, noting only 39% of rooms had CCTV in 2024 and full modernization is not expected until 2032.
- A 2014 ANSSI review, newly highlighted, found the video surveillance server used the password “LOUVRE” and other systems relied on trivial credentials and legacy Windows 2000 machines.
- Culture Minister Rachida Dati has ordered anti-intrusion measures and a dedicated security directorate, and the museum’s board is meeting in emergency session as management says it accepts most recommendations.
- Investigators have four suspects in custody after DNA and other forensic leads, with partial admissions reported, but at least one participant remains at large and none of the stolen jewels have been recovered.
- Prosecutors say four thieves used a truck-mounted lift to reach an Apollo Gallery window, smashed cases with power tools, and fled within minutes with eight Napoleonic-era crown-jewel items.