Mon Oct 20 11:27:31 UTC 2025: Summary:

A major jewelry heist occurred at the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Thieves used a crane to break in and steal priceless French crown jewels, escaping on motorbikes. The theft, labeled the “heist of the century,” has sparked outrage and criticism of the French government’s security measures. Key pieces stolen include a tiara and earring belonging to Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense. The Empress Eugenie’s crown was recovered outside the museum. The Louvre was closed on Monday as authorities investigated and held emergency meetings to address security concerns.

News Article:

Louvre Hit by “Heist of the Century,” Sparking National Outrage

Paris, France – October 20, 2025: The Louvre Museum in Paris remains closed today after a daring jewelry heist on Sunday that has left France reeling. Justice Minister Gerard Darmanin described the incident as giving a “negative” and “deplorable” image of France, while opposition politicians have labeled it a national humiliation.

Thieves reportedly used a crane to smash a window and gain access to the area housing the French crown jewels. They then stole priceless objects before making their escape on motorbikes. The audacious theft, dubbed the “heist of the century” by local media, took only six to seven minutes.

While unarmed, the four perpetrators threatened security guards with angle grinders. The jewels stolen include a tiara and an earring from the early 19th-century jewelry sets of Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense. The crown of Empress Eugenie was found abandoned outside the museum, apparently dropped during the getaway.

The break-in has raised serious questions about security at the Louvre, one of the world’s most famous museums, home to the Mona Lisa and attracting millions of visitors each year.

“This heist is an unbearable humiliation for our country,” said Jordan Bardella, leader of the far-right National Rally party.

Emergency meetings are being held between the Culture and Interior Ministries to discuss security improvements at the Louvre. The museum, initially expected to reopen today, will remain closed while the investigation continues. Visitors with booked tours will receive refunds.

Police are currently searching for the robbers, who remain at large.

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