Paris’s iconic Louvre Museum was forced to close Sunday after a brazen heist saw thieves break in and steal nine pieces of historical jewelry, prompting an immediate police investigation.
The theft occurred Sunday morning as the world-renowned institution was preparing to open its doors.
France’s Culture Minister, Rachida Dati, confirmed the incident on social media. She stated there were no victims reported in the robbery.
The minister also noted she was on site with museum staff and police, overseeing the ongoing investigation.
Among the stolen items are a necklace, a brooch, and a tiara. All nine pieces belong to the prestigious Napoleon and Empress jewelry collections.
The museum quickly announced its closure for the day due to “exceptional reasons.”
Reports from Le Parisien indicate a trio of robbers carried out the operation. They reportedly gained access to the building via the Seine River dock.
Two masked suspects reportedly broke windows to enter the premises. A third accomplice remained outside the building.
The thieves then used a freight elevator to reach the targeted room directly. This was located within the museum’s Galleria Apollo.
Police investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible and recover the valuable artifacts.