Antiquities dealer who exposed British Museum thefts dies amid ongoing investigation

Dr Ittai Gradel, an academic turned antiquities dealer who exposed the theft of numerous artefacts from the British Museum, has died of cancer at the age of 61.

His death comes as a police investigation into the thefts continues more than three years after the museum reported the losses to authorities.

Gradel first raised concerns in 2021 when he suspected that gems from the museum's collection were being sold on online auction sites for very low prices.

Despite his warnings, the museum's previous management did not take immediate action.

It was only in 2023, following its own investigation, that the British Museum announced that approximately 2,000 items were stolen, missing, or damaged.

The museum's director, Hartwig Fischer, resigned after admitting that the institution had not responded adequately to the initial warnings.

Gradel had cooperated with the Metropolitan Police and was expected to be a key witness in any forthcoming legal proceedings.

In his final days, Gradel received a rarely-presented medal from the museum in recognition of his significant contribution.

He expressed frustration that he would not live to see the resolution of the case and was concerned the investigation might not lead to charges.

The ongoing police investigation reflects efforts to hold those responsible accountable and to recover missing items.

The case highlights vulnerabilities in the protection of cultural heritage and challenges in addressing internal theft within major institutions.

What remains unclear is the timing and outcome of any charges, with developments expected in the coming months.

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