Violent trend emerges in European museum heists, Europol reports

Museums across Europe are facing a new wave of violent crime, according to Europol. Historically, museum thefts were often carried out discreetly, with criminals carefully removing valuable items and sometimes replacing them with replicas. A notable example from a few years ago involved the theft of antique books worth millions from various European libraries, which were later sold at auction in Russia. While nine individuals were apprehended in that case, many books were lost permanently.

However, Europol's recent analysis indicates a significant shift in modus operandi. The trend of non-violent, stealthy heists appears to be broken. Instead, perpetrators are increasingly resorting to brute force, employing sledgehammers, axes, crowbars, and even explosives to breach museum security and access high-value targets. This escalation in violence is a cause for concern among law enforcement agencies.

The motivation behind this violent trend is primarily economic. Europol points to the escalating market values of precious metals like gold and silver, as well as valuable gemstones. These items, along with highly coveted 14th and 15th-century Chinese porcelain, have become increasingly attractive targets due to their high resale potential on the art market. The increased demand and value make the risks associated with violent break-ins seem more justifiable to criminals.

Incidents highlighting this trend include a raid on the Cognacq-Jay museum in France, where four masked men stole gold and diamond jewelry. In another case at the Apollo Gallery in the Louvre, perpetrators smashed windows and threatened guards and visitors. In some instances, firearms have been used to intimidate security personnel and the public. This aggressive approach underscores the changing landscape of art and antiquities crime in Europe.