Nine arrests have been made in France in connection with a ticket fraud scheme that targeted the Louvre Museum over a period of ten years. According to the Paris public prosecutor's office, the fraud has resulted in approximately 10 million euros in lost revenue for the iconic museum. The police operation, which occurred on a Tuesday, was part of an investigation that originated in December 2024, prompted by reports from museum management about persistent irregularities involving two of their own employees and several external tour guides who were leading groups into the museum without proper tickets.

The investigation revealed significant amounts of cash seized during the police action, further underscoring the scale and impact of the fraudulent operation. The apparent mastermind behind the scheme has also been apprehended, highlighting the organized nature of the fraud. Authorities have emphasized the importance of such investigations to maintain the integrity of cultural institutions, as such deception not only affects financial aspects but also undermines the trust of visitors.

This incident raises questions about the security measures in place at one of the world’s most visited museums and may lead to reforms in ticketing practices to prevent future occurrences of similar schemes. With the Louvre being an iconic symbol of cultural heritage, safeguarding its operations is essential for both its financial stability and its reputation on the international stage.