The world-renowned Louvre Museum in Paris was forced to close on Friday after a daring early-morning robbery, France’s Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed.
According to a source close to the investigation, a group of thieves broke into the museum and escaped with a collection of valuable jewellery. The exact worth of the stolen items is still being assessed by authorities.
A police source reported that the robbers arrived on a scooter, carrying small chainsaws, and used a service lift to reach a specific room inside the museum. Their targeted and well-coordinated operation suggests the crime was carefully planned in advance.
“A hold-up took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum,” Minister Dati posted on X (formerly Twitter). The term she used, braquage, can translate to “robbery” in English. “No injuries have been reported. I’m currently on-site with museum staff and police,” she added.
A member of Dati’s team confirmed that at least one suspect managed to enter the museum before fleeing.
In a brief statement, the Louvre announced its closure for the day, citing “exceptional reasons.”
Police have launched an investigation, and security has been tightened around the area. The museum, which houses some of the world’s most treasured artworks — including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo — has not yet released further details about the stolen items or the extent of the damage.