British Museum director resigns due to lost and stolen artifacts

The Director of the British Museum in London announced his resignation following the loss, theft, or damage of around 2,000 artifacts stored in the museum’s warehouses. Following the revelation of the historical cases of loss, theft, and damage, he shared in a written statement that he was resigning. The incident, although disclosed by the British Museum on August 16, apparently dates back to previous years. (Diken)

Indicating that the events had occurred in past years, Fischer said, “The Museum did not respond with the seriousness it should have to the events reported in 2021, and the issue has now come to light in full.”

Taking responsibility as the museum director, Fischer also apologized for the statements made by Danish archaeological expert Ittai Gradel, suggesting that he possessed some of the stolen artifacts. Fischer mentioned, “I was misled.”

Fischer stated that his resignation had been accepted by the British Museum Board of Trustees and he would continue to serve in an acting capacity until a new director selected.

Emphasizing the need to take the allegations facing the museum seriously, Fischer said, “Unfortunately, I believe that my staying in this position would be a distraction. This is the last thing I would want.”

Some artifacts were put up for sale on eBay

On August 16, the British Museum reported that numerous historical artifacts in its storage had been stolen, lost, or damaged.

It was noted that a person responsible for the artifacts kept in the museum for academic research purposes, not for exhibition, had been dismissed.