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Weak security plagues Egypt’s archaeological sites

Security is tight in Egypt’s state institutions, but neglect is slowly destroying the country’s rich heritage as archaeological sites lack trained and armed security guards to protect them from terrorists and looting.
A local Egyptian man, employed as a guardian to help oversee the site, stands in Ramses II memorial temple in Luxor December 4, 2008. Ramses II was a 19th dynasty pharaoh who ruled Ancient Egypt for 67 years during the 13th century B.C.   REUTERS/Goran Tomasevic      (EGYPT) - RTR229Q8

When walking next to vital institutions or ministries in Egypt, one will notice they are surrounded by armored vehicles, tall walls and razor wire out of fear of terrorist infiltration. Yet, when walking by any of Egypt’s archaeological sites, one will find only one or two of the Ministry of Antiquities’ guards tasked with securing the sites that date back to early Egyptian civilization and contain priceless archaeological treasures.

The difference is clear.

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