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.
TL;DR
- 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.