Europol Warns of Violent Museum Heists as Chinese Artifacts Become Prime Targets
Chinese triads are active in the trade, according to Luc Larriba, a French journalist who has investigated art crime in France.
Museum thefts across Europe are becoming increasingly violent, with criminals focusing on precious metals, gemstones, and Chinese cultural artifacts. Europol’s report indicates a shift from stealth-based crimes to aggressive tactics involving tools and explosives, alongside the intimidation of guards and visitors. The agency also notes the emergence of new perpetrators recruited via social media on a ‘crime-as-a-service’ model.
- Museum thefts in Europe are increasing in violence.
- Criminals are targeting precious metals, gemstones, and Chinese cultural artifacts.
- Offenders are using forceful methods like sledgehammers, axes, crowbars, and explosives.
- Firearms are being used to intimidate guards and visitors.
- A new type of perpetrator is being recruited through social media on a ‘crime-as-a-service’ basis.
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