The National Palace Museum has launched a comprehensive review of its security measures after a high-profile theft of jewelry from the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday.
The seven-minute heist involved a portable electric ladder mounted on a truck, before thieves used grinders to break a window and enter the museum, smashing display cases and stealing jewelry, the New York Times reported.
The National Palace Museum yesterday said it would conduct simulated intrusion drills based on the Louvre case to test the effectiveness of its security systems against nontraditional entry methods, such as lifting equipment, construction passages and exterior walls.
Photo: CNA
It would further increase the frequency of patrols and night inspections, and test display cases to ensure that blast-resistant glass, locks and alarm systems are in working order and upgraded where necessary, it said.
Moreover, it would require all maintenance work to be reported in advance with identity verification for all personnel involved, it added.
It would continue to work with police to bolster interagency cooperation and enhance real-time monitoring of suspicious people and vehicles, the museum said.
The monitoring center maintains direct, real-time communication with local police to ensure any unusual activity can be reported and addressed immediately, it said.
The museum also holds regular security training and anti-theft drills for stationed police officers and administrative staff to improve emergency response capabilities, it added.
All entrances, exits and surrounding areas are equipped with surveillance cameras, lights and fences, while security staffing and patrol routes are adjusted according to risk level to ensure around-the-clock and complete-coverage monitoring, it said.
In addition, all outsourced personnel and construction workers undergo reviews and identity registration, and are accompanied by museum staff throughout their work, it said.
Exhibition spaces also undergo daily safety checks of display cases, seals, alarms and surveillance equipment, the museum added.
The museum said it is “deeply alarmed” by the incident in Paris and would continue upgrading its security technology and training to ensure the safety of its collections and visitors.
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