The Metropolitan Police Service’s Art and Antiques Unit have been made aware of an emerging crime trend relating to the theft of rhino horn from museums, auction houses and other institutions throughout the UK and Europe.
It is believed that organised criminal gangs are targeting premises after conducting research and hostile reconnaissance. They use a variety of methods to steal the objects including ‘smash and grab’ style thefts and overnight burglaries. They have been known to use force when challenged.
The latest spate of offences has been sparked by the significant increase in the value of rhino horn which is used in the traditional medicines of many Asian countries.
The price of rhino horn can now reach up to £60,000 per kilo – twice the value of gold.
Recently there have been a number of significant seizures by customs officers worldwide and South Africa has recorded a vast increase in the poaching of rhinoceros across the country.
Detective Constable Ian Lawson, from the Art and Antiques Unit, said: “We have been made aware of approximately 20 thefts of rhino horn from museums and auctions houses across the UK and Europe in the past six months.
"Additionally we have been made aware of incidents in the UK where premises that have rhino horn on display have been subject to hostile reconnaissance.
"We advise all museums, auction houses, stately homes or private individuals who are in possession of rhino horns to be extra vigilant and review their security arrangements.
"Consideration should be given to removing rhino horns from public display and storing them in secure locations, informing the public that the items have been removed."
