Italy faces multiple high-value thefts targeting science and art

Italy is experiencing a series of significant thefts targeting scientific, cultural, and luxury assets.

Researchers from Inaf, CNR, and the University of Florence reported the theft of approximately 50,000 euros worth of scientific equipment. The theft occurred during their return trip from the Observatorio Astrofisico de Javalambre in Spain following a solar eclipse observation mission.

In Rome, a major theft valued at 700,000 euros occurred at the residence of art historian Donella Bossi Pucci, where safes, jewelry, and paintings were taken. Nearby, tourists from the UAE were targeted in separate incidents: one involving the theft of 30,000 euros in luxury goods from a van, which was later recovered, and another near the Colosseum involving 100,000 euros worth of designer bags.

Other reported crimes include the theft of cultural heritage pieces from a museum in Messina and violent burglaries in Cervinara. Additionally, authorities in Ragusa arrested a man for drug trafficking and possession of stolen construction tools.