France: Priceless Jewels Stolen in Heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris

The Louvre Museum in Paris was the target of a daring robbery early Sunday, during which priceless jewels from the Napoleonic collection were stolen, according to French authorities. Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed that no one was injured and that an immediate investigation has been launched.

Several thieves carried out the heist in the early hours of Sunday before fleeing the scene, a source close to the case reported.

The assailants managed to break into the museum and steal several items of jewelry from the Napoleonic collection, described by Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez as “of inestimable value.”

Culture Minister Rachida Dati stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the robbery took place as the museum opened its doors on the morning of Sunday, October 19, noting that no injuries were reported. She added that she was on-site with police forces and museum officials as investigations continue.

According to preliminary findings, the robbery occurred between 9:30 and 9:40 a.m., and authorities are currently assessing the value of the stolen items.

A security source revealed that the thieves, whose number has not yet been confirmed, used a service elevator to reach the targeted gallery and were equipped with a small electric saw.