Over 10 Torah Scrolls Stolen Overnight From Paris Suburb Synagogue, Police Investigate

A serious incident struck the Jewish community in Levallois, a suburb of Paris, when over a dozen Torah scrolls were stolen overnight between Sunday and Monday. The thieves exploited a security gap by breaking in through the synagogue's roof, acting with apparent professionalism, according to community leaders. The theft was discovered after the break-in, which has deeply shocked local residents and worshippers.

Community representatives condemned the act as both a severe criminal offense and an antisemitic attack targeting the Torah. French police launched an accelerated investigation, reviewing security footage and identifying a vehicle believed to have been used for the getaway. Two masked individuals reportedly carried out the break-in swiftly, taking advantage of vulnerabilities in the building and surrounding private properties.

Security personnel from the Jewish community's protection organization SPCJ and bomb disposal experts conducted thorough searches of the premises to rule out further risks. The synagogue's security systems are also being reassessed to prevent future breaches. Levallois Mayor Agnès Pottier-Dumas expressed deep shock and anger, emphasizing the need for justice, while regional police chief Alexandre Brocher met with community leaders, highlighting the profound impact on the faithful.

Authorities and community members are also considering the possibility that the theft was intended for extortion, as stolen Torah scrolls have no legitimate market value. To prevent illicit sales, France's central Jewish consistory and chief rabbi plan to issue a global alert to synagogues. The event has left a heavy spiritual impact on Jewish communities in France and worldwide, with leaders stressing that only Torah scrolls were taken, and no other valuables were disturbed. The community pledged to provide ongoing updates and called for prayers in support of those affected.