Looted treasures from Sudan’s national museum appear on eBay

In the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in the deaths of up to 150,000 people, the national museum in Khartoum has become a target for looters. Over the past year, numerous priceless artefacts have been stolen and smuggled across borders, with many being sold online. The situation has escalated to a point where the United Nations cultural body, Unesco, has expressed grave concerns about the unprecedented threat to Sudan's cultural heritage. Experts believe that many of the items listed for sale, including paintings, gold objects, and pottery, are likely to have originated from the Sudan National Museum. The looting of these treasures is not just a loss of cultural heritage but also a reflection of the broader chaos and instability in the region. The Rapid Support Forces troops, who are reportedly involved in the looting, have contributed to the deterioration of the situation, making it increasingly difficult to protect these invaluable artefacts. The international community has been urged to take action against the buying and selling of these stolen items. Despite the removal of some listings from auction sites like eBay after media inquiries, the fear remains that many more artefacts are still circulating in the black market. The ongoing conflict has left the museum and its treasures vulnerable, and the potential for further looting continues to loom large. The call from Unesco for private collectors and dealers to refrain from purchasing these items highlights the urgent need for awareness and action to preserve Sudan's cultural legacy. As the situation unfolds, the fate of Sudan's priceless treasures hangs in the balance, with the risk of losing a significant part of the country's history and identity. The looting not only threatens the physical artefacts but also undermines the cultural fabric of a nation already grappling with the consequences of war.