Museums across Europe are experiencing an increase in audacious thefts, a trend attributed by security experts to a combination of underfunding, architectural challenges, and evolving criminal tactics. These institutions, often housed in historic buildings, present unique security vulnerabilities that differ significantly from those of banks or jewelry stores.
"Directors historically 'never have enough money for security' or prefer to spend it on the next exhibition," noted Brand, a security expert cited by BBC News. Adding to the complexity, many museums are located in 18th-century structures, making the implementation of modern security measures a challenge. Théo Caviezel, a local mayor, explained that "we therefore have to reconcile modern security requirements with the need to preserve historic buildings and comply with France's heritage regulations."
The open nature of museums, allowing visitors to enter without stringent access controls, further facilitates criminal activity. "Museums are also open public spaces that have less access control and perpetrators can come in as visitors," said Kumar Sokka, CEO of Acre Security. Even with robust security systems, the threat of armed intruders remains, and "it would be impractical to put police in galleries," Brand added.
These burglaries are often swift, with perpetrators disappearing in minutes. The methods employed have also become more aggressive. Europol's recent report highlights a shift from deception-based heists to increasingly violent ones, involving tools such as sledgehammers, axes, crowbars, and even explosives. In one instance at the Louvre, thieves reportedly used a mechanical lift, cut through a window with power tools, and threatened guards before accessing displays. Another incident involving a Renoir painting saw perpetrators cut through a fence with an electric knife and saw through the structures holding the artwork.
This escalation in aggression poses new security challenges. Lilli Hollein, director of the Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna, which was recently burgled, stated, "An armed incident during opening hours, like the one we experienced, creates a situation in which the immediate priority is to keep our audience and staff safe."