In a decisive move, the Greek Ministry of Culture has suspended a night guard at the Antiquities Ephorate of Serres, in northern Greece, after he was implicated in a major antiquities looting network.
The announcement came on Wednesday, shedding light on a growing scandal that has rocked the country’s cultural heritage sector.
The guard was named in a Hellenic Police investigation linking him to one of two criminal organisations involved in the illegal excavation and export of ancient artifacts. According to authorities, the staff member in the Guards/Information department at the Serres Ephorate, allegedly provided insider information to the looters, advising them on prime locations for their illicit digs.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Culture, it was confirmed that Culture Minister Lina Mendoni acted swiftly upon receiving the police report. “By decision of Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, [the Guard] is immediately suspended from duties in accordance with the Civil Employees Code,” the ministry declared. It emphasised a “zero tolerance” policy, noting that the case will now proceed under strict regulatory measures.
The suspension follows a wave of arrests in northern Greece earlier this week, targeting members of the two criminal rings accused of plundering the nation’s archaeological treasures. The investigation, which remains ongoing, has raised concerns about the security of Greece’s cultural sites and the potential involvement of insiders in such illegal activities.
For Greeks worldwide, the incident underscores the challenges faced in protecting the country’s rich historical legacy, a source of national pride and identity. The Ministry of Culture has vowed to take all necessary steps to safeguard Greece’s antiquities as the case continues to unfold.
(Source: Amna)