The world’s most visited museum, the Louvre in Paris, became the scene of a daring daylight robbery on Sunday. In a matter of minutes, a group of thieves made off with priceless crown jewels from the Napoleonic era, reigniting concerns over the museum’s security.

Thieves Strike in Just Seven Minutes

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported that the robbers used an external lift to access a second-floor window and entered the Apollo Gallery. There, they smashed display cases containing “Napoleon jewels” and French crown jewels, stealing eight items in total. The robbery occurred around 9:30 a.m. and lasted only seven minutes.

Stolen Jewels and Official List

The French Culture Ministry released a list of the stolen items:

• Two brooches
• Two crowns
• Two necklaces
• Two pairs of earrings

Authorities emphasized that these pieces are invaluable parts of France’s cultural heritage and hold significant historical importance.

A “Professional Operation,” Says Culture Minister

French Culture Minister Rachida Dati described the theft as “a meticulously planned, professional operation.” She emphasized the need for tighter security measures, noting that museum staff had long complained about overcrowding and understaffing, both of which make maintaining security increasingly difficult.

France President Emmanuel Macron said on social media: “The robbery at the Louvre is an attack on our history and culture. The stolen items will be recovered, and those responsible will face justice.”

At the time of the heist, part of the Louvre’s staff was reportedly on strike, a situation that may have left critical vulnerabilities in the museum’s security system.

Crown Found Damaged Outside the Museum

Authorities later confirmed that the imperial crown of Empress Eugénie was found outside the museum, broken and missing several of its precious stones. Police sealed off nearby streets along the Seine River as confused tourists were escorted out through the museum’s glass pyramid and adjoining courtyards.

So far, no arrests have been made, but investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and witness accounts to identify the culprits.

Security Concerns Resurface at the Louvre

The audacious heist has once again raised questions about security at the Louvre, which welcomes over eight million visitors annually. Museum employees have repeatedly warned of understaffing and insufficient surveillance amid growing crowds.

Police continue to investigate how the thieves managed to execute the operation with such precision in a building equipped with one of Europe’s most advanced alarm systems.