Ancient Statues Taken from the National Museum in Damascus
Historic sculptures and cultural objects have been stolen from Syria's National Museum in the capital, sources confirm.
The theft was discovered on Monday, when museum workers allegedly found that one of the museum's doors had been broken from the interior.
The half-dozen stolen pieces were marble creations and originated to the ancient Roman times, an authority informed the news agency.
Syria's Directorate-General for Antiquities and Museums said it had opened an investigation to determine the "details surrounding the disappearance of a number of exhibits", and that steps had been enacted to enhance protection and observation methods.
The chief of internal security in the capital area, General Osama Atkeh, was quoted by the government press as saying that authorities were examining the incident, which he said had affected several "archaeological statues and rare collectibles".
He continued that guards at the institution and other persons were being questioned.
The National Museum, which was founded in the early twentieth century, holds the significant historical artifacts in Syria.
It features historical records originating to the ancient era from Ugarit, where evidence of the most ancient linguistic system was discovered; early centuries CE ancient art from Palmyra, among the foremost ancient sites of the historical period; and a third century synagogue that was established at Dura Europos.
The museum was forced to close in 2012, twelve months after the beginning of the internal strife. Most of the holdings was transferred and preserved at undisclosed sites to ensure their safety.
It reopened partially in recent years and completely reopened in early this year, one month after rebel forces deposed Syria's former leader.
All six of Syria's Unesco World Heritage sites were affected or partly ruined during the internal struggle.
The Islamic State group blew up multiple ancient buildings and historical sites at the ancient city, stating that they were against their beliefs. Unesco denounced the damage as a violation.
Many historical objects were also damaged or taken from archaeological sites and museums.
