Yemen: Two artifacts from the Awam Temple, weighing two tons, were confiscated and returned to the Al-Mahra Museum.

Arab Sea Newspaper - Special

Yemeni antiquities expert Abdullah Mohsen confirmed the seizure of two rare artifacts, each weighing about two tons, that were smuggled from the historical Awam Temple in Marib Governorate, based on directives issued by the Antiquities and Museums Authority in Aden. Mohsen explained that the Awam Temple has been subjected to extensive looting and neglect for years, threatening its destruction, noting that the smuggling of the huge mural - which had crossed checkpoints to the Shahn border crossing with the Sultanate of Oman before it was seized - represents the latest episode of attacks on this ancient archaeological site. The two pieces were transferred to the Al-Ghaydah Museum in Al-Mahra Governorate, after official directives to confiscate them and prevent their return to Marib. Mohsen pointed out that the governorate, despite its historical importance, does not have a museum or an effective system to protect archaeological sites, warning against the continued attacks on the Yemeni cultural heritage. Critics hold local leaders in Marib - affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood - responsible for what they describe as a serious dereliction and tampering that affects one of the most prominent historical landmarks in the country, warning that the continued destruction of heritage is taking place in light of unjustified official and popular silence.