Louvre Security Blunder: Password for Video System at Time of Jewel Heist

In a shocking discovery, it has come to light that during last month's audacious jewel theft of $102 million from the Louvre, the password to the museum's surveillance system was simply 'Louvre.' This information was disclosed by a staff member familiar with the workings of the system.

This detail adds to the mounting criticism of the Louvre's security protocols following the bold theft.

During a presentation to the French Senate, the Louvre's president and director, Laurence des Cars, disclosed that there was only one surveillance camera at the exterior of the Apollo Gallery. This camera was misaligned, as it faced west and did not capture the window used by the burglars to gain entry and make their escape using power tools.

Security Shortcomings Identified

Des Cars also noted that while the Louvre's alarms and cameras were operational, there existed a significant 'weakness' in the museum's outer defenses, largely due to inadequate investment.

Reports from French investigators highlight the heist lasted merely seven minutes. The thieves utilized a cherry picker mounted on a truck to evacuate from the target area in the Apollo Gallery.

Responses to the Security Breach

Addressing French lawmakers, des Cars emphasized that while the installed security measures inside the Apollo Gallery functioned as intended, the dilemma remains how to adjust these systems to counter unforeseen and novel methods of attack.

Although confident in the security's internal functioning, des Cars expressed disappointment, stating, "We are currently facing a grave breakdown at the Louvre. Ensuring the safety of the Louvre is paramount during my leadership, and I was taken aback by the institution's security status upon my arrival in 2021."

Ongoing Investigation and Challenges

As investigations proceed in the wake of October's heist, officials continue their efforts even after four arrests related to the crime.

On a Sunday broadcast with Franceinfo, Paris public prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed that the search for the missing jewels remains active.

Beccuau affirmed, "All potential paths are being pursued." She further detailed that the arrests resulted in "new searches and discovery of additional items currently under examination," and at least one suspect remains at large.

She added the individuals in custody, primarily a 39-year-old taxi driver and a 34-year-old delivery worker and collector from Paris' northern suburbs, were not seemingly linked to organized crime groups.

Crucial Developments and Arrests

DNA evidence connected these individuals to the scene, leading to partial confessions. The unemployed rubbish collector was captured at Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to leave for Algeria on a one-way flight.

Two additional individuals charged include a man, aged 37, and his partner, aged 38, both residing in northern Paris.

Impact on the Louvre

The Apollo Gallery, home of the stolen jewels, has remained closed since the theft pending further security assessments.