Investigation: British Museum employee accused of stealing valuable items

author: FutureCar Staff    

An employee at the British Museum has been dismissed and an investigation has been launched by the Metropolitan Police after several items from the museum's collection were discovered to be missing, stolen, or damaged, according to a statement released by the museum on Wednesday.

The British Museum has initiated an independent review of its security procedures in response to the incident. The museum has taken legal action against the individual responsible for the thefts and dismisses them from their position. Additionally, the Economic Crime Command of the Metropolitan Police is conducting its own investigation into the matter.

The Metropolitan Police stated that they have been cooperating with the British Museum throughout the investigation. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this time. The police declined to provide further details.

The majority of the stolen items were small pieces kept in a storeroom that belonged to one of the museum's collections. These items include gold jewelry and gems made of semi-precious stones and glass, dating from the 15th century BC to the 19th century AD. The museum clarified that these items had not been on public display recently and were primarily used for academic and research purposes.

Hartwig Fischer, the director of the British Museum, expressed that the incident is highly unusual and apologized for the situation. He assured that the museum has taken immediate steps to address the issue and is determined to rectify the situation. The museum has already enhanced its security arrangements and is collaborating with external experts to compile an accurate inventory of the missing, damaged, and stolen items.

George Osborne, the chair of the British Museum's Trustees, emphasized their deep concern upon learning about the thefts. The Trustees have taken decisive action by involving the police, implementing emergency security measures, initiating an independent review, and utilizing disciplinary measures against the responsible individual. Osborne outlined the museum's current priorities as recovering the stolen items, identifying any shortcomings in security protocols, and making necessary investments in security and collection records to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Osborne concluded by stating that it is a sad day for all who cherish the British Museum, but they are determined to address the wrongdoing and utilize the experience to strengthen the institution.

FutureCar Staff