Thieves broke into the Renoir Museum in southeastern France early on Tuesday, stealing artworks valued at an estimated €9 million ($10.5 million) in one of the latest high-profile attacks targeting European museums.

According to French authorities, two suspects entered the museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer shortly before 6 a.m. after cutting through a fence surrounding the property. The museum's alarm system was triggered, and police arrived within minutes.

Two artworks remain missing

Cagnes-sur-Mer Mayor Bryan Masson said the suspects initially removed four artworks from the museum. However, after police reached the scene, the thieves abandoned two paintings in the museum gardens and fled with the remaining two artworks, which are still missing. Authorities estimate the value of the stolen works at around €9 million.

French judicial police have taken over the investigation and are reviewing surveillance footage while searching for the suspects. No arrests have been reported.

Museum dedicated to Renoir

Established in 1960, the Renoir Museum is housed in the former residence of renowned French Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, where he spent the final years of his life.

The museum preserves 13 original Renoir paintings, around 40 sculptures, as well as the artist's furniture, personal belongings, photographs and archives, making it one of France's most significant museums dedicated to the Impressionist master.

The theft comes amid growing concern over a series of high-profile art crimes across Europe, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures at museums and cultural institutions. (ILKHA)