British museum director Hartwig Fischer has announced his resignation following the theft of artefacts.
He stated in a statement that it was clear the museum “did not respond as comprehensively as it should have” when informed of the thefts in 2021.
Mr. Fischer also retracted comments he made earlier this week regarding the art dealer who initially informed museum officials.
He expressed “sincere regret” for the “misjudged” remarks.
The archives fired a staff member last week after items were reported “missing, stolen, or damaged.”
Mr. Fischer supported the archives inquiry in 2021 when it assured antiquities trader Ittai Gradel that “all objects were accounted for” earlier this week.
Mr. Fischer stated that he had “reason to believe” Dr. Gradel concealed information on additional missing objects, which Dr. Gradel called “an outright lie.”
Mr. Fischer’s resignation, according to Dr. Gradel, was “the right thing to do; I think he should have done it sooner, but I accept his apology.”
Mr. Fischer, who has held the role since 2016, stated that he would resign as soon as the archives board identified a replacement.
He had previously stated that he would quit the role, although he would not resign until 2024.
Deputy Director Jonathan Williams has also decided to take a leave of absence from his regular duties until an independent investigation into the crimes at the museum is completed.
