( CNN ) -- Thieves have forced the closure of Paris ' Louvre museum . But an art heist was not the reason . Instead , the closure came after staff walked off the job on Wednesday in protest against the increasing number of pickpockets operating in the museum . According to a report in The Guardian , the pickpockets work in organized gangs and are targeting both tourists and museum staff with `` increasingly violent tactics , '' including spitting and kicking . Despite increased co-operation with the police and temporary bans on offenders , pickpocketing remains a growing problem for the museum , staff said . The Louvre 's press department was unavailable for comment early Thursday but a representative of the museum said the Louvre was `` open as normal , until 5.30 p.m. '' When pressed about yesterday 's events , the representative declined to comment further and ended the call . The Louvre also closed in 2009 and 2001 as a result of staff protests about industrial disputes and working hours . The protest will be a pressing challenge for new director Jean-Luc Martinez as he takes up the post this coming Monday , taking over from Henri Loyrette . The museum , home to famous works from masters such as Leonardo da Vinci , is the most visited museum in the world with around 10 million visitors last year . Visitors should be mindful of their belongings when at the Louvre ; Mona Lisa 's eyes may not be the only things following you around the room . The Louvre is open every day ( except Tuesday ) from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Night opening until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays . MusÃ©e du Louvre , 75058 Paris - France . www.louvre.fr .
Louvre shut Wednesday after staff walked out in protest . Staff say pickpocket gangs are running rife in the museum . Louvre operating as normal on Thursday .