A daring heist at the Drents Museum in Assen, Netherlands, has left officials reeling after thieves used explosives to steal several gold masterpieces early Saturday morning. The stolen artifacts, including a gold Coțofenești helmet and three Dacian royal bracelets, were on loan from the National History Museum of Romania for the exhibit Dacia – Empire of Gold and Silver.

Police were alerted to the break-in at 3:45 a.m. local time following reports of an explosion. Upon arrival, officers discovered significant damage to the museum’s entrance and confirmed the theft of the priceless artifacts. The museum, which has operated for 170 years, described the incident as unprecedented.

“This is a dark day for the Drents Museum and the National History Museum of Romania,” said Harry Tupan, the museum’s general director. “We are deeply shocked by this event.”

Authorities believe multiple individuals were involved in the robbery. Around 4:15 a.m., police received reports of a car fire near the museum. While no one was inside the burning vehicle, investigators suspect it may be linked to the heist. The thieves reportedly switched to another car in the area before fleeing.

The stolen Coțofenești helmet, dating back to around 450 BC, is a rare and historically significant piece. Alongside the helmet, the three Dacian bracelets are considered invaluable artifacts from ancient Romania.

The museum will remain closed over the weekend as police conduct their investigation. No injuries were reported, and no arrests have been made so far. Authorities are urging residents with doorbell or dashcam footage from between 3:00 and 4:30 a.m. to come forward, as well as anyone who noticed unusual activity near the museum in recent days.