Museum heists turn violent, with thieves recruited via social media: Europol

Art thieves across Europe are shifting tactics, engaging in more violent robberies and targeting high-value items like gold and jewels, according to a report by Europol. The EU's law enforcement agency noted a move away from traditional, specialized gangs towards decentralized, opportunistic groups recruited through social media platforms on a 'crime-as-a-service' model.

These new criminal networks are employing more aggressive methods, including the use of sledgehammers, axes, crowbars, and even explosives to breach museum security. The focus has shifted to precious metals and artifacts that offer greater potential for profit, driven in part by the surge in gold prices. The London Bullion Market Association has also flagged an increase in illicit gold flows correlating with rising prices.

A notable example cited by Europol was the October heist at the Louvre Museum, where thieves threatened guards and visitors to steal jewels valued at €88 million, including Empress Eugenie's tiara. The report also highlighted the theft of a 2,500-year-old Dacian golden helmet and ancient gold bracelets from a museum in the Netherlands using explosives, though these artifacts were later recovered.

Beyond precious metals and jewels, Europol also observed a rise in the theft of ancient Chinese porcelain artifacts, such as Ming Dynasty vases, due to significant demand in illicit markets. The agency stated that precious metals are easily melted down and sold, while gemstones can be removed from jewelry, facilitating their disposal and making them difficult for law enforcement to trace.