France’s Culture Minister Rachida Dati has reported a break-in at the Louvre in Paris, as the world-renowned museum said it was closing for the day.
A source close to the case said robbers broke in to the Louvre and fled with jewellery this morning, adding that its value was still being evaluated.
A police source said an unknown number of thieves arrived on a scooter armed with small chainsaws and used a goods lift to reach the room they were targeting.
“A hold-up took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum,” Ms Dati wrote on X, using a French word that can also mean “robbery”.
“No injuries reported. I’m on site with museum staff and police,” she added.
At least one person had entered the museum, a member of her team said.
The Louvre said it was closing for the day “for exceptional reasons”.
The museum was not immediately available for comment.