China Probes 'Audacious' Art Heist at State Museum Allegedly Run by Insiders

Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into a leading state-run museum following allegations that staff were secretly selling cultural treasures on the open market. The scandal, described in one report as an alleged scam that would make the Louvre thieves look “dumb,” came to light after a Song dynasty painting donated to the museum surfaced at an auction earlier this year.

A Donated Painting Unravels the Plot

The investigation was triggered when the family of an art collector, who had donated the historic painting, spotted it listed for public sale. Their inquiry set off alarms about a potentially systemic and brazen operation to siphon priceless artifacts from within the museum's own walls. According to initial reports, a special team is now scrutinizing the museum's collection management protocols and the activities of key personnel.

Focus Turns to Former Director

The probe has reportedly intensified its focus on a former director of the institution. A former underling has allegedly come forward, claiming that the ex-director was involved in the illicit sale of collection items during his tenure. This whistleblower's testimony is believed to be a critical piece of evidence driving the official inquiry.