Iraqi officials implicated in smuggling of antiquities, British Museum expert says

[sabra]

Source: Azzaman

Senior Iraqi officials are involved in the smuggling of archaeological items during their trips abroad, according to a British Museum expert specialized in Mesopotamian antiquities.

Farouq al-Rawi, Professor of ancient Mesopotamian languages, said most of the antiquities these officials carry with them abroad end up in the private collections of royals and wealthy families particularly in the oil-rich Gulf states.

He said one member of the Kuwaiti ruling family, who he declined to name, keeps nearly 6,000 Mesopotamian artifacts in his private collection.

“We are aware that all these pieces were illegally dug from ancient mounds in the southern Province of Missan,” Rawi said.

Read more: http://www.azzaman.com/english/index.asp?fname=news%5C2008-05-13%5Ckurd.htm

[Elspeth]

1. Not a surprise.

But incredibly sad.

[Ian David]

2. Once again, Heckuva Job, Bushies! n/t