Weak security plagues Egypt’s archaeological sites
Security is tight in Egypt’s state institutions, but neglect is slowly destroying the country’s rich heritage as archaeological sites lack trained and armed security guards to protect them from terrorists and looting.
When walking next to vital institutions or ministries in Egypt, one will notice they are surrounded by armored vehicles, tall walls and razor wire out of fear of terrorist infiltration. Yet, when walking by any of Egypt’s archaeological sites, one will find only one or two of the Ministry of Antiquities’ guards tasked with securing the sites that date back to early Egyptian civilization and contain priceless archaeological treasures.
The difference is clear.
Officials in Egypt speak of the importance of cultural and civilizational heritage, and their ability to preserve it and protect it from thieves. Yet the weak security provided by the Antiquities Ministry is obvious.
Izzat Hassan, a guard affiliated with the ministry’s security department and who works at the Malawi National Museum in the Upper Egypt city of Minya, explained to Al-Monitor how he is unable to secure the antiquities within his jurisdiction. Nearly 1,000 artifacts were looted at the museum during the Jan. 25 revolution against former President Hosni Mubarak’s regime.
