Louvre director resigns after $102 million jewel heist in Paris

The director of Paris's Louvre Museum has stepped down following a sophisticated heist that saw crown jewels valued at approximately €88 million ($102 million) stolen from the institution's Apollo Gallery. Laurence des Cars announced her resignation, accepting responsibility for significant security failures that enabled the theft.

Acknowledgment of Security Failures

During a statement at the French Senate, des Cars acknowledged her "share of responsibility" in what she described as a "terrible failure." She confirmed that the museum's security systems failed to detect the burglars "early enough," specifically pointing to a "very insufficient video network" and problems with security posts as key vulnerabilities in the museum's perimeter protection.

The Seven-Minute Heist

The burglary itself was executed with remarkable speed, lasting no more than seven minutes. Four criminals used a stolen freight elevator to access the gallery through a window. Investigators later discovered the elevator had been carjacked nine days earlier in Louvres after suspects posed as potential buyers responding to an online advertisement. The incident has drawn international attention, with security experts in countries like Türkiye, home to major museums like Topkapi Palace, likely reviewing their own protective measures for high-value artifacts.

Evidence and Recovery Efforts

In their rushed escape, the thieves abandoned several items including a scooter helmet, blowtorch, walkie-talkie, and a yellow vest, all now undergoing forensic analysis. Although eight priceless heritage objects were stolen, the thieves dropped Empress Eugenie's crown during their escape, damaging it significantly. Des Cars noted the crown can undergo "delicate restoration." The Louvre, which remained closed for several days after the incident, faces serious questions about its security protocols as the investigation continues with no suspects yet arrested.