Ittai Gradel, exposer of British Museum thefts, dies aged 61

7 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Apr 28

Gradel died of cancer in a Danish hospice, having received the British Museum medal for his role in uncovering the theft of over 2,000 artefacts.
He first alerted the museum in 2021 about gems being sold online, but was initially ignored by management. His evidence led to global headlines, a police investigation, and the resignation of the museum's director.
Gradel returned more than 360 items himself and assisted police, but did not live to see the case resolved. His legacy includes renewed interest in ancient gems and reforms at the British Museum.

After 2,000 items were stolen, can the British Museum still claim it is a safe haven for global artifacts?

What institutional rot allowed priceless treasures to be sold on eBay for years before anyone noticed?

Are budget cuts forcing museums to choose between public access and protecting priceless collections from theft?

With the whistleblower now gone, will the full list of 2,000 missing museum artifacts ever be made public?

How can online giants like eBay be stopped from profiting off the billion-dollar black market in stolen heritage?