British Museum worker sacked and search launched after valuable items 'stolen'
British Museum worker sacked after valuable items missing, stolen or damaged
PA
A British Museum worker has been fired after items from its collection were found to be missing, stolen or damaged.
The items in question include gold jewellery and gems of semi-precious stones, and glass dating from the 15th century BC to the 19th century AD.
The museum announced that it would be taking legal action against an individual, begin a “vigorous programme to recover missing items,” and launch an independent review of security.
Hartwig Fischer, director of the British Museum, said: “The museum apologises for what has happened, but we have now brought an end to this – and we are determined to put things right.
Chairman of the British Museum George Osborne, with former Prime Minister David Cameron on the steps of the British Museum in London.
PA
“We have already tightened our security arrangements and we are working alongside outside experts to complete a definitive account of what is missing, damaged and stolen.
“This will allow us to throw our efforts into the recovery of objects.”
The Economic Crime Command of the Metropolitan Police is also investigating the matter.
The museum confirmed that the items had not been on public display recently and were mainly used for research and academic work.
The Economic Crime Command of the Metropolitan Police is also investigating the matter.
PA
George Osborne, chairman of the British Museum, said: “The trustees of the British Museum were extremely concerned when we learnt earlier this year that items of the collection had been stolen.
“The trustees have taken decisive action to deal with the situation, working with the team at the museum.
“We called in the police, imposed emergency measures to increase security, set up an independent review into what happened and lessons to learn, and used all the disciplinary powers available to us to deal with the individual we believe to be responsible.
“Our priority is now threefold: first, to recover the stolen items; second, to find out what, if anything, could have been done to stop this; and third, to do whatever it takes, with investment in security and collection records, to make sure this doesn’t happen again.
A chain and pendant associated with Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon on display at the British Museum in London as archaeological discoveries made by members of the public are revealed via the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS).
PA
“This incident only reinforces the case for the reimagination of the museum we have embarked upon.
"It’s a sad day for all who love our British Museum, but we’re determined to right the wrongs and use the experience to build a stronger museum.”
The review will be led by former trustee Sir Nigel Boardman, and Chief Constable of the British Transport Police, Lucy D’Orsi.
They will provide recommendations regarding future security arrangements and start “a vigorous programme to recover the missing items”, according to the museum.
Sir Nigel said: “The recovery programme will work to ensure the stolen items are returned to the museum.
“It will be a painstaking job, involving internal and external experts, but this is an absolute priority – however long it takes – and we are grateful for the help we have already received.”