The Louvre’s Crown Jewel Heist is Now a Race Against Time for Authorities — and the Brazen Thieves

French police officers seal off the entrance to the Louvre Museum after a robbery in Paris, France, on October 19, 2025. Robbers break into the Louvre and flee with jewelry on the morning of October 19, 2025, a source close to the case says, adding that its value is still being evaluated. A police source says an unknown number of thieves arrive on a scooter armed with small chainsaws and use a goods lift to reach the room they are targeting. (Photo by Jerome Gilles/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

PARIS (AP) — Experts say France’s royal jewels may be gone forever after a daring heist at the Louvre. On Sunday, thieves stole eight pieces, including crowns and necklaces, in just four minutes. These jewels, dating back to the 16th century, were significant symbols of France’s wealth and power. Experts believe the gems are likely being dismantled and sold off. The theft has left the French government scrambling to address security concerns at the museum. The heist is being called “the heist of the decade” and has sparked a race against time for authorities to recover the treasures.