Specialist gang ‘targeting’ Ukrainian treasures for removal to Russia

The thieves are particularly interested in Scythian treasure, like this 4th century BC golden pectoral, exhibited at the Museum of Historical Treasures in Kyiv. This is not among the looted items. Photograph: Efrem Lukatsky/AP

A specialist gang is smuggling valuable historic artefacts out of Ukraine and into Russia, according to an international team of academics and digital technology experts who are tracking thefts.

“There is now very strong evidence this is a purposive Russian move, with specific paintings and ornaments targeted and taken out to Russia,” said Brian Daniels, an anthropologist working with archaeologists, historians and digital imaging specialists.