Khaberni - The administration of the Louvre Museum in Paris announced a package of new security measures following the theft incident that caused shock in France and the world, without these measures including an increase in the number of guards, which sparked dissatisfaction among the museum's labor unions.
In the details of the incident that happened on the morning of October 19, a truck equipped with a crane stopped in front of the museum, and two men climbed onto the balcony of the Apollo Rooms where the French royal crown jewels are displayed. After breaking the glass of windows and display fronts, the two men stole 8 pieces of precious jewelry before fleeing.
Following the incident, the French Culture Minister Rashida Dati called for an emergency meeting at the end of last month, warning of a "chronic state of underestimating the risks of infiltration and theft" inside the famous museum.
Security Coordinator
In a statement issued on Friday, the administration of the Louvre announced the creation of a "Security Coordinator" position to coordinate among the various concerned departments, alongside installing new devices in the coming weeks and additional surveillance cameras over the coming months.
These decisions were made during an extraordinary meeting of the museum's board of directors, which is experiencing tension after a report accused its management of focusing on attracting visitors in recent years at the expense of the security of the exhibits.
Professional unions within the museum welcomed the steps to enhance technical security, but expressed regret over the lack of increase in the number of employees charged with daily security.
Recovery of Stolen Jewels
For his part, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged to recover the stolen jewels, and said in an interview with the Mexican network "Televiza" during his tour of Latin America: "We have begun arresting gang members. The jewels will be returned, and those involved will be arrested and tried."
According to French authorities, 4 individuals suspected of involvement in the theft have been arrested, but the stolen jewels have not yet been recovered.
The Louvre Museum is one of the most visited museums in the world, and its halls house some of the most famous artistic and historical collectibles, including the Mona Lisa and the French crown jewels.
