Several people posing as construction workers broke into the world-famous Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, smashing display cases and stealing jewelry that once belonged to Emperor Napoleon and his wife, officials said.
According to authorities, at least nine pieces of jewelry described as having “inestimable heritage and historical value” were stolen before the suspects escaped on motorcycles.
The Louvre said the suspects broke a window and entered the Apollo Gallery, which houses the French crown jewels, around 9:30 a.m. local time. Exact details of the stolen items have not yet been revealed.
“Investigations have begun and a precise list of the stolen objects is being drawn up,” the museum said in a statement.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez told local radio that the value of the items was “inestimable” and said at least three suspects appeared to be involved.
He said the thieves used a construction ladder to enter and that the entire robbery lasted about seven minutes.
An investigator with the Banditry Suppression Squad, a police unit that deals with major robberies and art thefts, said the suspects were wearing construction uniforms and covered their heads with hoods. The investigator added that two of the thieves entered the gallery while one remained outside, using small chainsaws to open the display cases.
Shortly after the theft, the museum announced on its website:
“The Louvre Museum will remain closed today for exceptional reasons. We thank you for your understanding.”
Museum officials said the decision to close was made jointly with police and the Home Office to secure the area and preserve evidence for investigators.
Kaci Benedetti, a visitor from the United States, told ABC News that she was waiting in line to enter the museum when police suddenly ran across the courtyard.
He said officers tried to enter the building through a side door but couldn’t because it was locked.
“We could see people running inside and some were banging on the glass doors to get out, but they couldn’t because they were locked,” Benedetti said. “Then the police and military police arrived. After about an hour they announced that the Louvre was closed for the day.”
The first official confirmation of the theft came from French Culture Minister Rachida Dati, who posted on social media:
“This morning a robbery occurred at the opening of the Louvre Museum. There are no injuries to report. I am at the scene along with the museum teams and the police. Investigations are ongoing.”
(ABC News)
READ ALSO TOP STORIES OF Newslodge
WATCH THE BEST VIDEOS FROM Newslodge TV