Assalāmu ʿalaykum - Louvre security faults admitted after daylight theft of crown jewels
Assalāmu ʿalaykum. France’s Justice Minister said a daylight theft at the Louvre has given a very bad impression of the country and revealed weaknesses in museum security. He acknowledged that security failed when thieves were able to park a furniture hoist in central Paris, lift people up quickly, grab priceless jewels and cause national embarrassment, but he added that police are working to catch those responsible.
Forensic teams are examining the scene and nearby access points while officials take a full inventory. The stolen pieces are of enormous historical value and some are described as practically priceless. The theft has reopened concerns about weak protection at museums across the country. The Interior Minister called museum security a “major weak spot,” and former police officials said the group appeared well prepared, using power tools to cut windows.
The Louvre is a global symbol of French culture and is supposed to be among the most protected places in Paris. The thieves arrived on powerful scooters shortly after opening, used a hoist to reach the royal collection, and cut through a window and display cases in a very short time. A visitor apparently filmed a brief clip of the raid on their phone, which circulated on TV.
Museum staff and guards intervened quickly, which forced the thieves to flee and led them to drop or leave some equipment behind. Of the nine 19th‑century jewellery pieces taken, one - the crown of Empress Eugénie - was dropped and damaged during the escape. Other items included necklaces once owned by members of the royal family, including a necklace with thousands of diamonds.
Officials say a team of around 60 investigators are working on the case and suspect an organised group carried out the raid in about seven minutes. Specialists warn these jewels are hard to recover: professional criminals often alter or break down large, recognizable stones to hide their origin.
The theft has sparked political debate about the state’s ability to protect cultural heritage. Calls for better security and faster action have come from many quarters. The public prosecutor has opened an investigation into organised theft and criminal conspiracy, and authorities say they are doing all they can to recover the treasures.
May Allāh protect the heritage entrusted to us and guide the authorities to a swift resolution. Please pray for the safe return of these important historical items.
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