Executive summary: French police have arrested suspects in the Louvre jewel heist, with one detained at Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to flee. The arrests follow a brazen theft that exposed security flaws at the world’s most visited museum.
The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed arrests on Saturday, October 26, 2025, in connection with the theft of crown jewels from the Louvre. One suspect was apprehended at the airport as he prepared to board a flight to Algeria, while another was arrested in the Paris area. French media reported that DNA evidence from the crime scene played a key role in identifying the suspects.
The heist occurred on the previous Sunday, when thieves used a truck-mounted ladder to access the Apollo Gallery through a first-floor window. They threatened guards, broke into two display cases, and stole jewelry worth €88 million in just minutes before escaping on scooters. The robbery took place in broad daylight, shocking visitors and staff.
Among the stolen items were a tiara worn by Empress Eugénie and the Marie-Louise necklace, part of France’s royal heritage. The jewels are not only valuable but also hold significant historical importance, making their loss a cultural tragedy for the nation.
Security failures were evident, as Louvre director Laurence des Cars admitted that CCTV coverage was inadequate, with cameras pointing away from critical areas. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin conceded that protocols “failed,” highlighting unsecured windows and the public accessibility of the lift used in the break-in.
In response, the Louvre has moved some precious items to the Bank of France’s secure vaults, and authorities are reviewing security measures across French cultural institutions. However, art experts worry that the jewels may have been dismantled, reducing chances of recovery.
The arrests mark progress, but with suspects still at large, the investigation continues. This incident has prompted a reevaluation of how to protect cultural treasures while maintaining public access, with implications for museums worldwide.