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How did the thieves manage to steal jewels from the Louvre?
Thieves used a basket lift to access the Apollo Gallery early Sunday morning, taking advantage of security lapses. The attack occurred shortly after the museum opened, and investigators believe it was an organized crime operation. Despite recent security upgrades, vulnerabilities in the Louvre’s defenses were exploited, allowing the thieves to escape with the jewels.
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What items were stolen and how valuable are they?
The thieves stole eight crown jewels linked to French royalty and Napoleon, including items of immense historical and monetary value. The stolen artifacts are estimated to be worth around 88 million euros, making this one of the most significant art thefts in recent history.
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What security lapses led to this high-profile theft?
Despite a €700 million modernization plan, the Louvre still faced security challenges. The theft happened during a period of ongoing upgrades, and the use of a basket lift suggests that some security measures, like surveillance and access controls, may have been bypassed or insufficiently coordinated to prevent such an intrusion.
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What’s next in the investigation?
Authorities have deployed around 100 officers to investigate the theft, focusing on organized crime groups. The museum remains closed as police examine security footage and gather evidence. The investigation aims to recover the stolen artifacts and identify those responsible for the heist.
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Could this theft lead to changes in museum security worldwide?
Yes, this high-profile theft is likely to prompt museums globally to review and strengthen their security protocols. Experts are calling for more advanced surveillance, better access controls, and increased security personnel to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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Has anything similar happened at other museums recently?
Yes, the Louvre’s recent theft follows a series of security breaches at other cultural institutions, including two other museums targeted last month. These incidents highlight ongoing vulnerabilities and the need for continuous security improvements across the museum sector.