Algiers Islamic art museum looted during anti-government protests: Culture Ministry
Cairo, Mar 9 (Sputnik/UNI) The National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art in the Algerian capital was attacked, and part of its exhibition was looted on Friday during mass anti-government rallies in the city, the country's Culture Ministry said on Saturday.
On Friday, nationwide protests were held in Algeria against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth consecutive term. Algerians have been angered by Bouteflika's announcement last month he would run in the April 18 presidential election, despite his pledge to hold a snap vote in case of his re-election. In general, the rallies proceeded peacefully, but in the evening there were riots and clashes with the police.
"After the administration building was set on fire and documentation and lists were destroyed, some of the exhibits were stolen," the ministry said in a statement, as quoted by the Radio Algeria broadcaster.
Civil defense forces managed to put out the fire quickly and prevent it from spreading to the rest of the museum's premises, it added.
The police have already returned one of the stolen exhibits. The search for criminals and stolen exhibits continues.
Law enforcement agencies claim that the protesters were joined by people, who intended to organize acts of vandalism. According to media reports, about 200 offenders were detained during the rallies.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
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