A highly organized gang of thieves executed a precision raid on an Italian art gallery, stealing three masterpieces worth an estimated €10 million (RM46 million) in under 190 seconds. The daring heist targeted the Magnani-Rocca Foundation, located in an elegant palazzo near Parma in northern Italy.
The criminals gained access to the building on the night of March 22–23 by using crowbars to pry open metal bars protecting a rear entrance. Once inside, they navigated directly to a room dedicated to French artists, suggesting they had conducted prior surveillance and knew exactly which pieces to target.
Key Details of the Raid
- Duration: Less than three minutes (under 190 seconds).
- Stolen Works: Three masterpieces by Cézanne, Renoir, and Matisse.
- Estimated Value: Approximately RM46 million.
- The Escape: Despite triggering alarms, the thieves fled across the gallery’s expansive gardens before police or private security could intercept them.
- Abandoned Loot: In their haste, the gang left behind a fourth unidentified painting they had already removed from the walls.
The gallery, which houses the private collection of late art historian Luigi Magnani, features works by world-renowned masters including Titian, Rubens, and Monet. In a statement, the museum emphasized that the strike was “well-organized” rather than impromptu, citing the speed and surgical nature of the theft.
While the heist occurred over a week ago, authorities and the foundation only disclosed the details of the loss this Monday. A massive investigation is currently underway to track the “swift-footed” suspects and recover the priceless cultural treasures.
