Chainsaw-wielding robbers steal jewelry from Louvre in Paris

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
19 Oct 2025 14:24

Robbers armed with chainsaws hit the Louver Museum in Paris, stealing jewelry from a display room. The museum states that it will remain closed for the day.

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A basket lift used by thieves is seen at the Louvre museum Sunday October 19, 2025 in Paris. (AP Photo/Alexander Turnbull)

Robbers armed with chainsaws broke into the Louvre Museum in Paris early Sunday morning, fleeing with an undisclosed quantity of jewelry, according to French media and police sources. The incident forced the world-renowned museum to close for the day.

The thieves reportedly arrived between 9:30 and 9:40 a.m. local time, drawing up on a scooter and using small chainsaws to gain access. They are said to have used a service lift to reach their target location inside the museum.

A source close to the investigation confirmed to AFP that jewelry was taken, although the full value of the stolen items has not yet been determined.

Louvre closed for “exceptional reasons”

Shortly after the robbery, the Louvre announced via a social media post that it would be closed for the day due to "exceptional reasons." No further details were provided by the museum when contacted by AFP.

⚠️🇫🇷 Le musée du Louvre restera fermé aujourd'hui pour raisons exceptionnelles.
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⚠️🌍 The Musée du Louvre will remain closed today for exceptional reasons. pic.twitter.com/bFY1hRaW5k
— Musée du Louvre (@MuseeLouvre) October 19, 2025

France’s Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed the incident in a post on X, stating, “A robbery took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum.” She added that there were no injuries and that she was present at the site alongside museum staff and police.

Located in the heart of Paris, the Louvre is often listed as the most visited museum in the world. Once the residence of French monarchs until the reign of Louis XIV, who relocated to Versailles in the late 17th century, the museum now houses some of the most important pieces of art in history.

In 2023, the Louvre welcomed over nine million visitors.

Security officials are continuing their investigation, and authorities have yet to confirm whether the stolen jewelry was part of a permanent collection or on temporary loan.