A new video purportedly shows the thieves involved in a brazen daytime heist at the Louvre, raising concerns about security at the iconic Paris museum.
A recent video has surfaced, allegedly depicting the thieves who executed a daring daylight robbery at the Louvre Museum in Paris. The footage, released by French broadcaster BFMTV, is said to showcase one of the most audacious art thefts in recent history.
The brief clip appears to capture an individual inside the Apollo Gallery, a section of the museum housing some of its most valuable treasures. An anonymous bystander filmed the scene, which features a person wearing a bright yellow jacket standing next to a glass display case.
BFMTV replayed the amateur footage, confirming its authenticity through verification methods. However, the Associated Press has not been able to independently authenticate the video.
According to French authorities, the heist was meticulously planned and executed shortly after the museum opened its doors to the public on Sunday morning. At approximately 9:30 a.m., the thieves utilized a basket lift to access the Louvre’s facade, forcing open a window to gain entry into the Apollo Gallery, which showcases royal jewels.
Reports indicate that the group made off with jewels that once belonged to Napoleon III’s court, including items from Empress Eugénie’s personal collection. Tim Carpenter, a former FBI Art Crime expert, commented on the operation, stating, “They breached through a window and made this really brazen. These guys are fast and moving quickly with a purpose, and they breach, and they get in there really quickly.”
Following the heist, French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez addressed the incident during an interview with radio station France Inter. He explained that the thieves “entered from the outside using a basket lift” and employed “a disc cutter” to slice through the glass panes protecting the valuable jewels.
The investigation into the theft is underway, with authorities compiling a detailed list of the stolen items. A statement from the Ministry of Culture emphasized that, beyond their market value, these artifacts possess immense heritage and historical significance.
In the aftermath of the robbery, the Louvre remained closed on Monday as investigators meticulously examined the scene and reviewed surveillance footage. The museum’s management has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
The brazen nature of the theft has raised concerns about security measures at one of the world’s most visited museums. As the investigation continues, many are left wondering how such a high-profile heist could occur in broad daylight.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Louvre Museum and the Ministry of Culture for further comments on this alarming incident.
Source: Original article