Investigation Uncovers Extensive Fraud
French authorities have announced the detention of nine individuals in connection with a suspected large-scale ticket fraud scheme at the iconic Louvre Museum in Paris. The arrests, which took place on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, follow a judicial investigation initiated after the Louvre filed a complaint in December 2024. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed the detentions on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
The alleged fraud is believed to have spanned a decade, resulting in estimated losses exceeding 10 million euros (approximately $11.8 million USD) for the world's most visited museum.
Details of the Scheme and Detainees
Among those detained are two Louvre employees, several tour guides, and an individual suspected of orchestrating the entire operation. The investigation revealed a sophisticated network that allegedly facilitated fraudulent entries into the museum. Key methods included:
- Repeated ticket reuse: Tickets were reportedly used multiple times for different visitors.
- Bypassing fees: Tour groups were allegedly split up to avoid paying mandatory 'speaking fees' for guides.
- Internal complicity: Suspected accomplices within the Louvre are believed to have received cash payments from guides in exchange for overlooking ticket checks.
The museum initially alerted investigators after noticing the frequent presence of two Chinese tour guides suspected of bringing Chinese tourist groups into the museum by fraudulently reusing tickets. Investigators estimate that the network may have facilitated entry for up to 20 tour groups a day over the past ten years.
Financial Impact and Legal Proceedings
The formal judicial investigation was opened in June 2025, with charges including organized fraud, money laundering, corruption, aiding illegal entry into the country as part of an organized group, and the use of forged administrative documents. Authorities have seized significant assets linked to the alleged scheme, including over 957,000 euros in cash (with 67,000 euros in foreign currency) and 486,000 euros from various bank accounts. Suspects are believed to have invested some of the illicit gains in real estate in both France and Dubai.
The Paris prosecutor's office also indicated that similar ticket fraud is suspected to have occurred at the Palace of Versailles, though no further details were provided.
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