Antiquities Smuggling in the Real and Virtual World

Download or read book Antiquities Smuggling in the Real and Virtual World written by Layla Hashemi and published by Routledge. This book was released on 2022-01-16 with total page 196 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book examines the illicit trade in antiquities, a trade which has increased massively following the destruction and looting of ancient Near Eastern sites in the Middle East. Focusing on the distribution networks for looted antiquities, especially the routes to the West, the book considers the dealers and facilitators who are key in getting the objects to market, explores the methods used including online marketplaces and social media sites, analyses demand and buyers, revealing that objects are often available at very affordable prices. It outlines the efforts of law enforcement agencies, including the military, and legal systems to contain the trade. Throughout the book highlights the difficulties of putting a stop to this illicit trade, particularly in a conflict region.