French authorities have arrested two suspects linked to the audacious theft of France’s crown jewels from the Louvre Museum — a heist that shocked the world and raised questions about the security of one of the most renowned cultural landmarks.
The suspects were captured just days after the daylight robbery that saw thieves make off with jewelry worth approximately €88 million ($102 million) from the Louvre’s famed Apollo Gallery, home to the French Crown Jewels.
According to the Paris prosecutor’s office, one of the suspects was arrested as he attempted to flee the country through Charles de Gaulle Airport, while the other was detained in the Parisian suburb of Aubervilliers. Investigators tracked them down using DNA evidence, with at least two more suspects believed to still be at large.
A Seven-Minute Heist That Stunned the World
The robbery, executed in broad daylight, lasted just seven minutes. The thieves used a truck-mounted ladder to access a window leading to the Apollo Gallery, one of the museum’s most ornate rooms. Once inside, they broke into two high-security display cases and stole nine items, including a diamond and sapphire tiara and necklace worn by Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense.
Louvre director Laurence des Cars described the theft as a “terrible failure,” while French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin admitted that the heist revealed “major lapses” in museum security, questioning why the gallery’s windows were not properly secured.
Investigation and Government Response
Over 100 investigators were assigned to the case, working around the clock to trace the culprits. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez praised their “tireless efforts” and expressed confidence that all responsible individuals would be brought to justice.
The Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, confirmed that one of the arrested men was stopped during a passport check before boarding a flight to Algeria, but did not disclose whether any of the stolen jewels had been recovered.
Security Failures Under Scrutiny
Following the high-profile heist, French officials have come under pressure to enhance the Louvre’s security systems. Justice Minister Darmanin said, “One can wonder about the fact that the windows hadn’t been secured, and that a basket lift was easily accessible on a public road. What is certain is that we have failed.”
The robbery — the most significant art-related theft in France in decades — has reignited debate over the vulnerabilities of cultural heritage sites and the black-market demand for royal artifacts.
Authorities continue to search for the remaining suspects and the missing jewels, while the Louvre remains open to visitors under tightened security measures.
In other news also read about Louvre Raiders Vanish Without a Trace; France Steps Up the Chase
