The Louvre’s director, Laurence des Cars, has publicly acknowledged a significant security failure that enabled thieves to steal French crown jewels valued at €88 million (£76 million). Speaking to senators, des Cars revealed that the museum’s perimeter CCTV system was outdated and inadequate, with the only camera overlooking the point of entry actually facing away from the balcony used by the thieves.
Describing the situation as a “terrible failure,” des Cars admitted that the Louvre had been “defeated” by the criminals. She detailed the museum’s struggles with insufficient security funding, stating that she intends to double the number of CCTV cameras. She also noted that she was warned about the obsolete nature of the museum’s equipment upon taking the role.
The thieves reportedly gained access through a first-floor balcony, bypassing security measures. The lack of effective surveillance meant their arrival, including the use of a lorry and mechanical ladder, went completely unnoticed. While praising security guards for their quick action in evacuating the building once the intrusion was detected, des Cars conceded that the “weakness of our perimeter protection is known.”
The Louvre has since reopened, though the specific gallery affected by the theft remains closed. The incident has highlighted the immense challenge of securing such a high-profile institution, which attracts millions of visitors annually. Investigations into the four-person gang responsible are ongoing, with authorities believing they were acting on behalf of a criminal organization.