The French authorities announced the introduction of additional security measures at the Paris Louvre after the theft of historical property that occurred on October 19.
French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati spoke on the TF1 television channel about the progress of the administrative investigation carried out in connection with the robbery of the museum.
According to her, the investigation showed that the risks of robberies and unauthorized entry into the Louvre have been underestimated for more than 20 years. “This cannot continue,” Duthie said.
The minister noted that measures to prevent unauthorized entry and possible attacks using vehicles will be introduced no later than the end of this year, and also instructed Louvre director Laurence De Car to urgently convene the museum council.
“We must review the museum management system and create a new security department at the management level. This is the only way to develop a consistent strategy for protecting the Louvre from theft and illegal activity. “Staff responsible for museum security will receive additional training, and outdated, faulty or missing equipment will be updated,” she added.
Theft of historical artifacts
The Louvre, which receives thousands of visitors daily and exhibits about 35,000 works of art, was robbed on the morning of October 19.
Criminals stole nine priceless items from the Gallery Apollo, where the royal jewels are kept. One of the lost exhibits was a crown that belonged to Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III. It was later found damaged outside the museum – presumably dropped by thieves during their escape. The robbery, carried out by four attackers, lasted only seven minutes. The robbers made off with eight pieces of jewelry.
A preliminary report from the French Court of Auditors found that the implementation of technical security systems at the museum had been subject to “constant” and “significant” delays, which led to vulnerabilities.
Museum director Laurence De Car testified before the Senate Committee on Culture on October 22. She admitted responsibility for the incident and submitted her resignation to Culture Minister Rachida Dati, but she refused to accept her.
After the theft, some of the exhibits, including jewelry, were temporarily transported to the Central Bank of France to ensure their safety.
As part of the investigation into the robbery on October 29, two people were arrested, and five more were detained for questioning. It is estimated that the total value of the stolen exhibits is 88 million euros.