Antiquities dealer who exposed thefts at British Museum dies aged 61

"Dr. Ittai Gradel alerted the British Museum and police after purchasing dozens of artefacts on eBay, leading to a significant investigation into the thefts."

"Gradel expressed frustration that he would not live to see the resolution of the case, having reported the thefts and urged the museum to act."

"The British Museum confirmed that 2,000 items from its collection were stolen, missing, or damaged, prompting the resignation of its then director."

"Gradel suspected a senior curator of stealing artefacts and provided evidence, including a PayPal receipt, but the curator denies any wrongdoing."

Dr. Ittai Gradel, an academic and antiquities dealer, died at 61 after exposing the theft of artefacts from the British Museum. He alerted authorities after purchasing items on eBay. Gradel received a medal from the museum shortly before his death. A police investigation continues into the thefts, which were reported three years ago. Gradel accused the museum of initially ignoring his warnings. The museum later confirmed that 2,000 items were stolen or damaged, leading to the resignation of its director. Gradel suspected a senior curator of theft, who denies wrongdoing.

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