Robbers flee Louvre museum with jewellery

PARIS, Oct 19 (AFP): Robbers wielding power tools scaled a furniture hoist outside the Louvre to make off with priceless jewellery from the world-renowned museum on Sunday, taking just seven minutes for the brazen, broad-daylight heist, sources and officials said.

The hunt was still on for the culprits, whom officials said were experienced and did not hurt anyone in the spectacular theft.

France's Culture Minister Rachida Dati said one of the stolen items was found near the museum.

The robbery-the latest to target a French museum in recent months-forced the closure for the rest of the day of the Louvre, home to some of the world's most famous artworks, including the Mona Lisa.

Armed soldiers patrolled the landmark's esplanade, around the famed glass pyramid serving as its main entrance, while police teams were seen going inside.