French police arrest nine people over suspected €10m Louvre ticket fraud

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Angelique Chrisafis in ParisFebruary 13, 2026 at 12:04 PM
French police arrest nine people over suspected €10m Louvre ticket fraud

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French police have arrested nine people, including two Louvre museum staff members, in connection with a suspected €10 million ticket fraud scheme. The Louvre reported the suspected scam, which allegedly involved tour guides re-using tickets, particularly with Chinese tour groups, and avoiding "speaking fees" for guides. Investigators believe the network may have operated for a decade, bringing in up to 20 tour groups daily. The investigation, launched last June, involves charges including organized fraud, money laundering, and corruption. Authorities have seized nearly €1 million in cash and hundreds of thousands more from bank accounts, suspecting some funds were invested in real estate.

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ticket fraud 100% louvre 90% museum fraud 80% tour guides 70% organised fraud 60% money laundering 60% french police 50% real estate 40%

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Paris

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