Ancient Statues Stolen from the National Museum Located in Damascus
Ancient artifacts and additional items have been removed from the National Museum of Syria in Damascus, sources confirm.
The theft was noticed on Monday, when employees apparently found that one of the museum's doors had been forced from the interior.
The six stolen statues were made of marble and originated to the Roman period, an authority told the Associated Press.
Syria's Directorate-General for Antiquities and Museums said it had initiated an inquiry to establish the "circumstances surrounding the loss of a collection of artifacts", and that actions had been implemented to enhance safeguarding and surveillance.
The head of domestic security in the capital area, Brig-Gen Osama Atkeh, was quoted by the government press as stating that law enforcement were investigating the robbery, which he said had affected several "archaeological statues and valuable objects".
He noted that security personnel at the museum and other persons were being interviewed.
The Damascus Museum, which was established in 1919, houses the significant historical artifacts in the country.
It includes clay cuneiform tablets tracing back to the 14th Century BC from historical site, where indications of the earliest writing system was found; Greco-Roman period Greco-Roman sculptures from historical site, one of the most important historical locations of the classical era; and a ancient religious building that was built at another archaeological site.
The institution was had to cease operations in 2012, one year after the beginning of the internal strife. A large portion of the collection was transferred and stored at secret locations to protect them.
It reopened partially in recent years and completely reopened in the beginning of the year, four weeks after rebel forces deposed the Assad regime.
All six of nationally recognized sites were damaged or partially destroyed during the civil war.
The militant faction blew up numerous temples and additional edifices at the ancient city, stating that they were against their beliefs. International authorities condemned the damage as a violation.
Numerous historical objects were also damaged or stolen from dig sites and cultural institutions.
