Egypt is on high alert following the theft of a rare wall panel from the Saqqara archaeological site, only days after a priceless bracelet was stolen from the Cairo Museum and reportedly melted down. Local media said the back-to-back incidents have raised concerns over the protection of Egypt’s heritage treasures.
The latest theft took place inside the tomb of Khentkaus in Giza Governorate, where thieves used a power saw to cut a painted section from the wall. The stolen panel, which measures around 60 by 40 centimetres, dates back to the Old Kingdom and depicts scenes of daily life in ancient Egypt.
The Ministry of Antiquities confirmed that the tomb had been sealed since 2019 and was being used as a storage site for artifacts. Officials noted that the site had remained untouched for years, making the theft especially significant.
Mohamed Ismail, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the tomb was discovered in the 1950s and had been completely sealed. He added that an archaeological committee led by Amr El Tayeb, supervisor of the Saqqara area, was immediately formed to assess the damage and inventory the tomb’s contents.
The committee’s findings were referred to the Public Prosecution on the same day. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said it is closely following the case in coordination with relevant authorities, stressing that efforts are underway to safeguard Egypt’s archaeological heritage against illegal activity.
