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New CCTV Shows Swift Louvre Jewel Heist as Guards Stand Back

Prosecutors report four suspects detained, with eight royal pieces still missing, intensifying pressure over security failures.

The thieves smashed in a window and headed for the display cases
The thieves broke in on a Sunday morning
They used a stolen furniture-lifting truck
The Louvre has improved security measures since the burglary

Overview

  • French television aired surveillance video from the Apollo Gallery showing two thieves smashing cases and working for about four minutes as staff did not intervene.
  • Investigators say the crew used a stolen mover’s truck, a furniture lift and angle grinders to enter through a window and then fled on high‑powered scooters.
  • Four men in their 30s remain in custody after DNA on broken glass, a scooter and equipment linked them to the raid, while a fifth suspect was charged as an accomplice and released under supervision.
  • Eight jewels are still missing after a dropped crown was recovered damaged, and prosecutors say there is no indication the pieces have left France or that an external organizer has been identified.
  • Security lapses highlighted by the footage and audits have put Louvre leadership under strain, with the culture minister signaling personnel changes and staff strikes closing the museum again on Monday.