Louvre director steps down after Paris crown jewels heist

The director of the Louvre Museum has resigned months after a high-profile theft of France’s crown jewels in Paris.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday accepted the resignation of Laurence des Cars, who had faced mounting pressure following the daring robbery at the world’s most visited museum.

In a statement, the French presidency described her decision as “an act of responsibility,” adding that the museum now needs “calm and a strong new impetus” to implement major projects, including security upgrades and modernisation efforts.

The heist took place in October, when thieves used an extendable ladder mounted on a truck to access the Louvre through an unmonitored window. In less than eight minutes, they escaped with crown jewels valued at about £76 million. Two of the suspects entered the building while two remained outside, and all four fled the scene on motorbikes, dropping a diamond and emerald crown in their haste.

French authorities have since detained several suspects and believe all four members directly involved in the robbery are now in custody. In total, five people have been charged in connection with the case, including the four main suspects and the partner of one of them.

However, the stolen jewels themselves — including an emerald and diamond necklace gifted by Napoleon I to his second wife, Empress Marie-Louise — have not yet been recovered.

Following the theft, security at the Louvre has undergone major changes, with museum operators admitting serious lapses. Several priceless items have also been transferred to the Bank of France for safekeeping.

The museum has also introduced higher ticket prices for non-EU visitors in recent months, raising entry fees from 22 euros to 32 euros, as part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening operations and security.