Louvre Heist Involved Disc Cutters to Steal $102 Million in Jewels, Prompting Security Overhaul

PARIS, France — November 20, 2025 — Authorities have disclosed new details about the recent heist at the Louvre Museum, where thieves used disc cutters to steal jewels valued at approximately $102 million. The incident has led officials to announce a comprehensive security upgrade, including the installation of 100 additional surveillance cameras and enhanced anti-intrusion technology, expected to be fully operational by 2026.

According to officials, the thieves gained access to the museum’s vaults by cutting through metal barriers with disc cutters, a method that allowed them to bypass existing security measures. The stolen items included rare and valuable jewels that are part of the museum’s historic collection.

The Louvre, one of the world’s most visited cultural institutions, has faced increased scrutiny after the theft exposed vulnerabilities in its security infrastructure. In response, museum authorities and law enforcement agencies have collaborated to implement a series of measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

Among the planned improvements is the deployment of 100 new high-definition cameras strategically placed throughout the museum, including previously less-monitored areas. Additionally, advanced anti-intrusion systems will be integrated to detect and deter unauthorized access attempts more effectively.

Officials emphasized that these upgrades are designed not only to protect the museum’s valuable artifacts but also to enhance overall visitor safety. The security overhaul is slated for completion by the end of 2026, with ongoing assessments to ensure the effectiveness of the new systems.

The investigation into the heist remains active, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and pursue leads. No arrests have been reported at this time. The stolen jewels have not been recovered.

The Louvre’s management expressed commitment to safeguarding its collections and working closely with security experts and law enforcement to prevent future breaches. The incident has also sparked broader discussions within the museum community about the need to modernize security protocols amid evolving threats.

As one of the world’s foremost repositories of art and history, the Louvre’s response to the heist underscores the challenges cultural institutions face in balancing public access with the protection of priceless assets. The announced security enhancements reflect a significant investment in addressing these challenges and restoring confidence in the museum’s ability to secure its treasures.