Over Rs. 2 m in fines for artifact thefts

The Special Police Unit to prevent the destruction of archaeological artifacts has taken steps to protect archaeological sites and ancient items excavated from those sites.

Director General of Archaeology Dr. Senarath Dissanayake said 352 cases of theft had been reported to the Special Police Unit, and Rs. 2,585,600 have been imposed as fines. The Unit has taken measures to prevent the destruction of archaeological monuments and to increase the fines by amending the laws. Awareness programs have been conducted to protect archaeological monuments and how to react during destruction and theft. Action has also been taken to conduct seminars and exhibitions for schoolchildren.

Most of the archaeological destructions and thefts have been reported from the North Western, North Central and Eastern Provinces. The Director General said laws, fines and punishment alone will not prevent these destructions and it is every one's responsibility and duty to protect these monuments.

The Department of Archaeology has called upon the public to contact them on telephone No. 0117222333 or 0112692840 extension 213.