EUROPE: Europe art theft is becoming increasingly destructive as criminals use explosives, sledgehammers, axes and power tools to breach museums and cultural heritage sites, Europol said.
The European Union law-enforcement agency said gold objects and precious stones had become major targets over the past two years because thieves can melt down gold or separate stones for resale. Europol also identified growing criminal interest in ancient Chinese porcelain.
In the Netherlands, robbers used explosives during a museum theft in January 2025 and took three gold bracelets and a helmet dating back about 2,500 years. The authorities later recovered some of the stolen items.
Another robbery later in 2025 targeted the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. According to the source, criminals used angle grinders and stole jewellery valued at €88 million, or about $96 million.
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Europol’s findings indicate that thieves are increasingly damaging buildings, displays and artefacts while seeking materials that can be broken down or resold separately.
