French authorities are hunting four thieves after a major robbery at the Louvre Museum in Paris. The brazen heist occurred on Sunday morning. It targeted the museum's famed Apollo Gallery.

According to AFP, the thieves used a crane to break in. They threatened guards with angle grinders to access display cases. The stolen items include priceless French crown jewels.

Paris chief prosecutor Laure Beccuau described the group as a coordinated "strike team." The men wore masks to conceal their identities. They entered the museum around 9:30 AM local time.

The thieves used high-powered scooters for their escape. This detail was confirmed by the prosecutor to BFMTV. Their quick getaway complicated initial police efforts.

One item, believed to be Empress Eugénie's broken crown, was recovered nearby. The thieves dropped it while fleeing. Eight other cultural treasures remain missing.

The French culture ministry confirmed the theft of eight invaluable objects. One is an emerald-and-diamond necklace. Emperor Napoleon originally gave this necklace to his wife, Empress Marie Louise.

Two high-security display cases were specifically targeted. The value of the stolen heritage is considered immeasurable. The investigation involves specialized police units.

These units include the Banditism Repression Brigade. The Central Office for Combating Trafficking in Cultural Property is also assisting. The Louvre has a long history of thefts, including the famous 1911 Mona Lisa theft.

The hunt for the stolen crown jewels continues. This Louvre Museum Heist represents a significant loss to France's cultural patrimony. Authorities are pursuing all leads to recover the national treasures.

Agence France-Presse (AFP), Reuters, BFMTV, French Interior Ministry, French Culture Ministry, Paris Prosecutor's Office.