Thieves Execute Swift Heist at Louvre, Stealing Priceless Crown Jewels
In a seven-minute operation, thieves stole eight invaluable pieces from the Louvre's Apollo Gallery, prompting a museum closure and a nationwide manhunt.
On October 19, 2025, at approximately 9:30 a.m., four masked individuals executed a swift and coordinated robbery at Paris' Louvre Museum, targeting the Apollo Gallery, home to the French Crown Jewels. The thieves used a basket lift to access a second-floor window, forced entry, and smashed display cases with angle grinders, seizing eight pieces of "inestimable" historical value.
Among the stolen artifacts were a sapphire and diamond necklace of Queen Marie-Amélie and Empress Eugénie’s diamond tiara. One item, identified as Empress Eugénie’s crown, was later found outside the museum, reportedly damaged.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the theft, stating,
"The theft committed at the Louvre is an attack on a heritage that we cherish because it is our History. We will recover the works, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice."
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the heist as a "major robbery," noting that the operation lasted between six and seven minutes. He emphasized the professionalism of the perpetrators, suggesting they had conducted prior reconnaissance.
The Louvre was closed for the day to facilitate the investigation, with forensic teams working to compile a precise inventory of the stolen items. Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed that no injuries were reported and that investigations are underway.
This incident has raised concerns about security measures at the world's most visited museum, prompting officials to pledge enhancements to prevent future occurrences.