Louvre Heist Steals Priceless Napoleon‑Era Jewels

Around 9:30–9:40 a.m. thieves carried out a rapid four- to seven-minute daylight robbery at the Louvre’s Galerie d’Apollon, stealing jewellery of priceless value from the Napoleon/Empress collection. Authorities say the intruders used a basket/platform or goods lift to reach and force open a window, cut display panes with a disc cutter or small chainsaws, smashed cases and fled on motorbikes or scooters. One of the stolen pieces was later found near the museum and no injuries were reported. Police sealed the site, began forensic work and are compiling a detailed inventory as the investigation continues. The Louvre closed for the day and culture and interior ministers visited the scene as officials vowed to recover the jewels and review security protocols.