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Police Launch Manhunt After Louvre Daytime Heist of Crown Jewels

Authorities have launched an administrative audit following the theft.

Overview

  • Eight 19th‑century jewels are missing while the Empress Eugénie's crown was abandoned nearby and recovered with its condition under assessment.
  • The burglars used a lift platform to reach the Galerie d’Apollon, cutting a window and two high‑security cases with grinders in a seven‑to‑eight‑minute operation.
  • Investigators say four suspects fled on scooters, are reviewing CCTV and witness footage, and have recovered tools, fuel, a talkie‑walkie, gloves and a high‑visibility vest.
  • About 60 investigators from the BRB and the OCBC are mobilized, and the Louvre remains closed to preserve traces with reopening not expected before Wednesday.
  • The interior ministry instructed prefects to reinforce protection of cultural sites as a Cour des comptes pre‑report cites extensive surveillance gaps at the museum.