Unbelievably Simple Security Password Led to Grand Museum Theft
The grand theft of grand jewels worth a whopping $102 million from a world-renowned museum was facilitated by an unimaginably simple password - the museum's name itself. This shocking information was revealed by an insider who works at the museum.
Security Measures Questioned After the Theft
Since the audacious robbery, the museum's security measures have been put to the test. The museum's administration has been under pressure to explain the apparent security lapses.
The museum's director admitted to a committee of the French Senate that the only surveillance camera outside the Apollo Gallery, from where the theft took place, was facing west. This meant that the window which the robbers used to break in and escape was not under surveillance.
Inadequate Perimeter Security
The museum's director acknowledged that the video cameras and alarms were functioning properly but admitted to a "weakness" in the museum’s perimeter security, attributing it to "underinvestment."
According to investigators, the robbers swiftly completed the entire operation, from breaching the security to escaping, in just seven minutes. They utilized a truck-mounted mechanical cherry picker to exit the targeted Apollo Gallery.
Adapting to New Types of Threats
The director defended the museum's existing security system, stating that it worked flawlessly during the incident. However, he noted the need to upgrade the system to counter new types of threats, which the museum had not anticipated.
Despite his defense of the security system, the director acknowledged a "terrible failure" in the museum's security, promising to prioritize security during his tenure. He expressed his shock at the museum’s security situation when he took over in 2021.
Investigation Continues as Stolen Jewels Remain Missing
Even as the investigation into the theft continues, the stolen jewels are yet to be recovered. Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the robbery, but the jewels are still missing.
Authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their search for the stolen jewels. The recent arrests have led to further searches and seizures. However, at least one person involved in the robbery remains on the loose.
Suspects in Custody Unconnected to Organized Crime
Interestingly, the suspects in custody do not seem to have any connections with organized crime. The first two suspects arrested included a 39-year-old taxi driver and a 34-year-old delivery man and garbage collector from the suburbs of northern Paris. Their DNA was found at the crime scene, and they have partially admitted their involvement in the crime. One of them was arrested at Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport, just as he was about to board a one-way flight to Algeria.
The other two suspects are a 37-year-old man and his domestic partner, who are also from the northern regions of Paris.
Apollo Gallery Remains Closed Since the Theft
As a consequence of the heist, the Apollo Gallery, where the stolen jewels were displayed, has remained closed.