[CPProt.net] Vandalism and theft at Sidon antiquity warehouse underscores neglect

[MSN CPPnet (Ton Cremers)]

Vandalism and theft at Sidon antiquity warehouse underscores neglect 

August 14, 2005 
 
By Mohammed Zaatari 
Daily Star staff
 
 
 
SIDON: Once again, residents of the port city of Sidon were struck by the
robbery of the Directorate General of Antiquities' warehouse over the
weekend due to the ongoing neglect of Lebanese authorities. The theft raised
many questions as to who protects Sidon's ruins from robbery and neglect;
what is the role of the Directorate General of Antiquities in Sidon; and
what is the reason behind neglecting a warehouse where important historic
valuables are stored.

According to security reports, suspects penetrated the warehouse late on
Saturday after jumping over the fence and breaking into the offices.

The suspects vandalized the premises before smashing two sarcophagi and
stealing the head of one with a rare Byzantine scripture on it.

The director general of antiquities in Sidon, Bahija Traboulsi, immediately
reported the theft to the Internal Security Forces.

The ISF officials rushed to the warehouse where they assessed the damages.

The warehouse is one of the most important in Sidon since it includes
historic pillars, sarcophagi and other valuables. However, the warehouse is
not properly cared for as it is located in an area overrun with shrubbery
without the least of security surveillance measures.

Sidon MPs have repeatedly brought their complaints before the government,
calling for the construction of a national museum to protect and display the
discoveries, but so far efforts have been in vain.