Major ticket fraud scheme uncovered at the Louvre
The Museum once again at the center of a scandal
The Parisian Louvre has once again found itself at the heart of a high-profile scandal. According to Le Parisien, police carried out a large-scale operation on Tuesday, 10 February, dismantling a fraud network that had been operating within the museum.
As reported by the newspaper, those detained include two Louvre employees, several tour guides, and the alleged mastermind behind the scheme. Investigators believe the group illegally generated more than €10 million, part of which was reportedly invested in real estate in France and Dubai.
How the Scheme Worked
According to preliminary findings, the perpetrators sold counterfeit tickets, arranged fictitious rebookings and resold guided tours while exceeding the officially permitted group sizes. The same tickets were used repeatedly for different visitors, and an additional fee was charged for «assistance» in entering the museum by bypassing official ticket counters.
French media report that Chinese tourists were often among the victims, having been actively recruited into such groups.
During the searches, law enforcement officers seized approximately €957,000 in cash, more than €486,000 in bank accounts, as well as three vehicles and other assets.
The investigation began after the Louvre filed an official complaint in December 2024, citing a «rise and diversification of ticket fraud». According to Agence France-Presse and Associated Press, the inquiry involved prolonged surveillance and wiretapping of suspects, which ultimately exposed the mechanics of the scheme.
Another Blow to the Museum’s Reputation
The incident marks yet another challenge to the museum’s reputation. In recent years, the Louvre has already made headlines over several high-profile incidents – including, in October 2025, its involvement in a case concerning the theft of French Crown jewels. The institution has also repeatedly faced staff strikes and criticism over working conditions and security systems.
Museum officials announced the launch of a structured anti-fraud program. It предусматривает tighter control over ticket sales, the implementation of legal, technical, and organizational measures, and regular monitoring of their effectiveness.
Photo: depositphotos
