Louvre Museum in Paris shut after thieves armed with chainsaws loot Napoleon-era jewels

According to Le Parisien, the criminals entered the Louvre through the façade facing the Seine River -- an area currently under construction -- and used a freight elevator to reach the Apollo Gallery, home to some of the museum’s most valuable artifacts.

By: Express Web Desk

New Delhi | Updated: October 19, 2025 06:24 PM IST

2 min read

The theft prompted an immediate shutdown of the Louvre museum in Paris. (Pixabay)

Thieves, reportedly armed with chainsaws stormed the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday morning and made off with a collection of jewels once belonging to Napoleon and Empress Joséphine, news agency AFP reported. The theft prompted an immediate shutdown of the world’s most visited museum and a police investigation into what officials described as an “exceptional” breach of security.

French Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed the incident on X, writing, “A robbery took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum.” She added that she was at the scene as investigations got underway. The Louvre also announced on social media that it would remain closed “for exceptional reasons,” offering no further explanation.

According to Le Parisien, the criminals entered the museum through the façade facing the Seine River — an area currently under construction — and used a freight elevator to reach the Apollo Gallery, home to some of the museum’s most valuable artifacts. Once inside, they broke through glass displays and allegedly stole nine pieces from the jewellery collection of Napoleon and the Empress.

A police source told AFP that the suspects, believed to be an unknown number, arrived on a scooter and were armed with small chainsaws, which they used to break into the targeted section. No injuries were reported.

The Louvre’s famed Apollo Gallery, originally designed by Louis XIV and known for housing priceless royal regalia and French crown jewels, has long been a magnet for art lovers—and, it seems, criminals alike.

Authorities have yet to confirm the exact value of the stolen items or whether the museum’s extensive surveillance footage has provided any leads. Paris police said only that “one or more criminals” were involved and that the investigation was ongoing.

As of Sunday evening (local time), the Louvre remained closed to the public, with tight police presence outside its glass pyramid entrance.

(With AFP, France24 inputs)

From the homepage