Syrian Efforts to Recover Thousands of Smuggled Artifacts via Interpol
The Directorate of Antiquities in the Syrian province of Idlib announced the launch of a comprehensive plan, in cooperation with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), aimed at tracking and recovering thousands of Syrian artifacts that were looted from the Idlib Museum and other sites over the past years.
In a special statement, the Director of Antiquities in Idlib, Mr. Hassan Ismail, revealed the extent of the loss, stating: "The number of missing artifacts is estimated to be in the thousands, and it has been confirmed that they were smuggled out of the country."
Ismail explained the ongoing work mechanism, indicating that specialized teams are currently "documenting the artifacts with photographs and serial numbers and sending them to Interpol to assist in their recovery," paving the way for the identification and seizure of these cultural properties in international markets.
It is noteworthy that the Idlib Museum, which houses nearly a third of Syria's archaeological treasures, has suffered significant damage due to the war conditions, having been targeted by three airstrikes; one from the Syrian regime forces and two from Russian aircraft, causing extensive destruction to its structure and contents.
In discussing the future of the museum, the Director of Antiquities referred to the ongoing restoration project, stating: "The Idlib Museum is currently undergoing extensive restoration work, which began after the Turkey-Syria earthquake, including the preparation of the interior halls, replacing the roof, and equipping the exhibition halls, in preparation for its reopening to visitors and foreign tourists," signaling a new chapter in the preservation of Syria's cultural heritage.
