Armed Robbery: Explosives Used to Steal Precious Romanian Artifacts from Dutch Museum

NLNetherlands|

Thieves targeted the Drents Museum in Assen, Netherlands, early on Saturday morning, using explosives to steal several priceless Romanian prehistoric artefacts. The burglary resulted in the theft of a 2,500-year-old golden helmet, known as the helmet of Cotofanesti, and three Dacian royal bracelets from around 50 BCE, all of which were part of an exhibition dedicated to the Dacian empire.

The assailants blasted open a door to gain entry to the museum, which houses artifacts on loan from the National History Museum in Bucharest, Romania. Museum director Harry Tupan expressed deep concern over the incident, noting that "in its 170-year existence, there has never been such a major incident."

In response to the robbery, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis stated that Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof assured him that authorities were taking all necessary measures to identify the suspects and recover the stolen items. Law enforcement believes multiple individuals were involved in the heist, prompting the involvement of Interpol in the investigation.

Authorities reported that no injuries occurred during the explosion, but damages to the building were significant. A burning car was found near the museum, indicating that the suspects may have switched vehicles after the theft. Police are appealing to the public for any information regarding the suspects or the missing artefacts.

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