Swiss authorities were searching on Friday for two robbers who overpowered a security guard at an ancient Rome-themed museum in Lausanne, smashed a display case and made off with dozens of gold coins that had been displayed inside.
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City police said the suspects had bought tickets and waited until other visitors had left shortly before closing time on Thursday.
“The two individuals assaulted and overpowered the guard. They then broke into a secured display case and stole several gold coins that were displayed inside,” before fleeing, the police statement said.
The 64-year-old guard had activated the museum’s panic alarm, triggering a rapid response by law enforcement, police said.
The monetary value of the loot was not immediately revealed, but police said the coins had “archaeological value”.
“At this stage, an inventory is under way to determine the exact number of items stolen and to identify any other missing items,” the statement said.