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Theft at Messina Museum: Investigations into Custodians and Possible Accomplices

The prosecutor has launched an investigation into the theft of works by Antonello da Messina, while the involved custodians have been transferred and risk disciplinary actions.

20 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Theft at Messina Museum: Investigations into Custodians and Possible Accomplices — Photo: zak mc · Flickr · BY-SA

Chief Prosecutor Antonio D'Amato has opened an investigation for aggravated theft following the theft of works by Antonello da Messina that took place at the Messina museum. The investigation aims to explore various avenues, including possible involvement of internal accomplices or mafia elements, according to Sky TG24.

The four perpetrators of the theft, which occurred during Ferragosto, are currently at large. The prosecutor is investigating unknown individuals and does not rule out any possibilities, including potential mafia involvement, as reported by Rai News.

Following the theft, the four custodians who were on duty at the time of the incident have been transferred to other sites. This decision to reassign them was confirmed by the Regional Cultural Heritage Assessor, Francesco Scarpinato, in an interview with La Repubblica Palermo.

Archive photo: Theft at Messina Museum: Investigations into Custodians and Possible Accomplices — Archive photoPhoto: Bruno Corbucci (director), Luigi Kuveiller (cinematographer), Dino De Laurentiis (producer). · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

From the analysis of the cameras in the area of the incident, investigators are gathering crucial information for the case. Sky TG24 emphasized that the involved custodians, two regional employees and two ASU staff currently on leave, will not return to work at the museum.

Furthermore, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against the custodians, which could lead to their dismissal as they are considered responsible for the management of the museum's security. The situation is receiving particular attention from the prosecutor's office.

The Messina museum has reopened to the public with a black cloth covering the base where the stolen works were displayed, while investigations continue to clarify the circumstances of the theft and potential responsibilities.

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