Louvre director acknowledges ‘weakness’ after jewel heist and calls for modernisation
The Louvre’s cameras failed to detect burglars in time to prevent their audacious daylight heist of some of France’s crown jewels, the museum’s director said on Wednesday, amid growing anger directed at officials over major security lapses.
The thieves broke into the world-famous Paris museum on Sunday using a crane to smash an upstairs window, then stole jewels worth more than $155 million before escaping on motorbikes.
Louvre director Laurence des Cars told a French senate hearing she had repeatedly warned that the centuries-old building’s security was in a dire state and needed modernisation.
“There has undoubtedly been chronic underinvestment in the Louvre’s equipment and infrastructure, Des Cars said.
“Despite our efforts, despite our hard work every day, we were defeated.”
Many in France and around the world have been baffled by how four hooded assailants were able to drive up to the world’s most visited museum, smash a second-floor window and make off with the jewels without getting caught. French ministers have admitted serious security lapses occurred.
SBS News is Australia’s trusted news source for the latest news from Australia and across the world.
Subscribe to the SBS News YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SBSNews
Follow SBS News on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sbsnews_au" target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>https://www.instagram.com/sbsnews_au
Follow SBS News on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sbsnews_au
Follow SBS News on X: https://www.twitter.com/SBSNews
Follow SBS News on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sbsnews
Apple News: https://trib.al/MTx0gUe
For the latest news, visit www.sbs.com.au/news
Network Terms & Conditions: https://sbs.com.au/terms
Privacy Policy: https://sbs.com.au/privacy
Feedback or complaints: https://sbs.com.au/complaints
