The Louvre Museum in Paris was forced to close its doors on October 19 after a daring heist in which thieves used chainsaws to steal millions of dollars’ worth of historic jewelry from the Apollo Gallery, one of the museum’s most famous exhibition spaces. The robbery took place around 9:30 a.m. local time, with the group entering through a window and quickly cutting through barriers to access the display cases. The entire operation lasted only seven minutes before the thieves fled on motorcycles. Officials confirmed that no one was injured during the incident.

Authorities revealed that four individuals were involved in the robbery, with two disguised as museum maintenance workers and the other two serving as lookouts and getaway drivers. The stolen items included nine pieces from the Napoleon and Empresses Marie-Louise and Eugénie collection, treasures of significant historical value. So far, two of the items have been recovered, one near the museum. In response to the incident, the Louvre closed temporarily to secure the crime scene and assist investigators. Police, forensic teams, and armed soldiers were deployed around the museum as part of the security and investigation efforts.

The Paris prosecutor’s office has classified the case as an “organized theft” and launched a full-scale investigation, calling it one of the most audacious museum robberies in recent French history. France’s Culture Minister, Rachida Dati, confirmed ongoing investigations and emphasized the importance of recovering these invaluable artifacts. The Apollo Gallery is known for housing some of France’s most precious jewels, including the legendary Regent, Sancy, and Hortensia diamonds, adding to the gravity of the loss. Museum officials and government ministers remain on site as efforts continue to solve the case and restore security to the iconic cultural institution.