British Museum director resigns amid scandal

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【Summary】British Museum director Hartwig Fischer has stepped down amid a scandal involving stolen artefacts. Allegations of thefts of priceless items from the museum have emerged, with items being removed from the vaults over many years and sold on eBay. Fischer stated that the museum did not respond adequately to warnings and took responsibility for the failure. The British Museum is taking legal action against a sacked staff member, and the Metropolitan Police are conducting inquiries.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 5:28 PM PT

British Museum director resigns amid scandal

British Museum director Hartwig Fischer has announced his immediate resignation amid a scandal involving stolen artefacts. The museum recently revealed that a member of staff had been fired after treasures were reported missing, stolen, or damaged. It is believed that these items were taken from the museum's vaults over many years and sold on eBay for a fraction of their value. The stolen artefacts include gold, jewellery, gems, and semi-precious stones.

In a statement, Mr. Fischer expressed regret for the museum's inadequate response to the warnings and investigations surrounding the thefts. He acknowledged his own misjudgment in previous remarks and offered his resignation to the chairman of the trustees. Mr. Fischer will step down as soon as an interim leadership arrangement is established, with the aim of selecting a new director.

The British Museum is currently facing a serious situation, but Mr. Fischer believes it will overcome this moment and emerge stronger. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with dedicated public servants and lead such an incredible institution.

Mr. Fischer had previously announced his intention to step down next year. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that they have interviewed a man in connection with the alleged thefts, but no arrests have been made yet. The British Museum is also taking legal action against the dismissed staff member responsible for the thefts, which occurred over a significant period of time before 2023.