Recent reports indicate that the British Museum is facing a significant loss of its artefacts, with estimates suggesting that the number of stolen pieces might be “closer to 2,000,” and the total value of these missing items is believed to be worth “millions of pounds.”
Missing Items and Staff Consequences
Last week, the British Museum publicly acknowledged the discovery of items from its collection that had gone “missing, stolen, or damaged.” Consequently, an unnamed staff member has been dismissed from their position.
The museum has taken legal action against the individual in question, and while the police are actively investigating the matter, no arrests have been made thus far.
The museum has refrained from specifying the exact quantity and nature of the stolen items.
However, it has been mentioned that these were “small pieces,” including items like “gold jewellery and gems of semi-precious stones and glass” spanning a wide historical timeframe, dating from the 15th century BC to the 19th century AD.
Scope of the Theft and Ongoing Investigations
Current reports indicate that the number of stolen artefacts has surpassed 1,000 and might even be “closer to 2,000.”
These missing pieces carry a substantial combined value, reaching “millions of pounds,” as reported by the Daily Telegraph.
Notably, the stolen items had not been on public display recently but were instead stored in a dedicated storeroom primarily used for research and academic purposes.
The British Museum’s challenge in accurately assessing the full extent of the loss is compounded by potential “gaps in its inventory.” This suggests that the museum might face difficulties in precisely identifying what has been stolen.
Response and Investigation Steps
The British Museum has initiated an independent review of its security measures in response to this incident.
The Metropolitan Police’s economic crime command is also actively investigating the situation.
Criticism has been directed towards the museum’s directorate for its handling of the case, with claims of negligence and incompetence in their response to evidence presented.
It has been revealed that an expert in antiquities had informed the museum three years prior that items from its collection were being offered for sale on eBay.
Notably, a Roman object valued by dealers at £25,000 to £50,000 was reportedly listed for a mere £40.
The independent review will be led by former museum trustee Sir Nigel Boardman and Lucy D’Orsi, the chief constable of the British Transport Police.
Their mission is to drive a robust effort to recover the stolen items.
While the police investigation is ongoing, the British Museum has chosen not to provide any comments at this time.
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