(MENAFN) A bold theft at the world-renowned Louvre Museum on Sunday has been denounced as an “intolerable humiliation” by Jordan Bardella, president of the right-leaning National Rally party.

Bardella, who also serves as a member of the European Parliament, expressed outrage over the incident, calling it a disgrace to France’s image and cultural legacy.

According to officials, the robbery occurred around 9:30 a.m. local time. A group of masked individuals used a truck equipped with a basket lift to access a window on one side of the museum.

The intruders broke into the Apollon Gallery and fled the scene on motorbikes within a span of four to seven minutes. One artifact — reportedly the crown of Empress Eugenie — was found damaged outside the premises.

Bardella reacted on X, stating, “The Louvre is a global symbol of our culture. This heist, which allowed thieves to steal the Crown Jewels of France, is an intolerable humiliation for our country.” He further questioned, “How far will the decay of the state go?”

Another prominent right-wing figure, Marine Le Pen, who leads the National Rally’s parliamentary group in the French National Assembly, echoed Bardella’s sentiments.

She referred to the robbery as a new “ordeal” for France and a blow to the nation's “soul,” while offering support to law enforcement as they pursue those responsible.

Earlier that day, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the act as a “very professional” operation, underlining that the stolen treasures hold “inestimable heritage value.”

Culture Minister Rachida Dati assured the public that there were no injuries reported. She added that investigators are currently analyzing surveillance footage, examining the tools used in the break-in, and interviewing museum personnel.

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