Days after eight pieces of the French crown jewels were stolen from the Louvre, a former bank robber who once toured the now-infamous Apollo Gallery for a Louvre podcast says he warned a museum official of weaknesses in security. David Desclos, a reformed career burglar, told The Associated Press on Tuesday that he warned a Louvre representative years ago that the Apollo Gallery's street-facing windows and nearby vitrines left treasures exposed to anyone bold enough to climb in. The robbery has led to increased scrutiny and questions about museum security.

The Louvre's director has acknowledged a "terrible failure" at the Paris tourist attraction after a daylight crown jewel heist over the weekend. She said Wednesday that she offered to resign but it was refused. Louvre director Laurence des Cars said in testimony to the French Senate that the world's most-visited museum had a shortage of security cameras outside the monument and other "weaknesses" exposed by Sunday's heist. The theft was valued at more than $100 million. The culprits are still at large.

Experts say France's royal jewels may be gone forever after a daring heist at the Louvre. On Sunday, thieves stole eight pieces, including crowns and necklaces, in just four minutes. These jewels, dating back to the 16th century, were significant symbols of France's wealth and power. Experts believe the gems are likely being dismantled and sold off. The theft has left the French government scrambling to address security concerns at the museum. The heist is being called "the heist of the decade" and has sparked a race against time for authorities to recover the treasures.

he Louvre remained closed Monday after historic jewels were stolen in a daring daylight heist. Thieves used a basket lift to access the museum, smashed display cases, and fled with Napoleonic jewels. The theft occurred Sunday, just 30 minutes after the museum opened. French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin acknowledged security failures. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez ordered a reassessment of security measures at cultural sites. Investigators are working on evidence, including motorcycles found at the scene. Culture Minister Rachida Dati said the heist lasted less than eight minutes and was highly efficient.