The Louvre Museum in Paris has commenced critical security upgrades in response to the devastating October heist that exposed systemic vulnerabilities in its protection systems. On Tuesday, maintenance crews from Grima-Nacelles company ascended via freight lift to install reinforced metal bars on the very window that thieves exploited during their meticulously executed robbery eight months ago.
The operation bore eerie similarities to the October 19th incident when perpetrators disguised as maintenance workers used identical equipment to access the Apollo Gallery. Within a mere eight-minute window, the thieves successfully absconded with historically significant crown jewels valued at approximately $102 million, including priceless tiaras, emerald earrings, and sapphire necklaces.
While French authorities have apprehended and charged all four suspects connected to the audacious theft, the stolen treasures remain missing. The Louvre administration maintained silence regarding Tuesday’s security enhancement operation, though Samuel Lasnel of Grima-Nacelles confirmed his team’s previous collaborations with the museum on both interior and exterior projects.
The world’s most visited museum now faces the complex challenge of balancing public accessibility with heightened security protocols. These physical improvements represent just one aspect of a comprehensive security overhaul initiated in the aftermath of one of history’s most valuable museum heists, aiming to prevent future breaches while preserving the institution’s cultural mission.