Ancient Saka Tombs Looted in Kazakhstan: Outrage Over Destruction of Cultural Heritage

In Kazakhstan's Zhetysu region, ancient Saka burial mounds, dating back thousands of years, have been looted. Local resident Oleg Tikhomirov, a resident of the village of Sarybel, stumbled upon the scene and immediately reported it. "I am outraged," Tikhomirov stated, "This cannot go unpunished. We still have treasures like these." The destruction is significant; large sections of the mounds have been excavated, leaving behind only scattered earth and exposed bones. According to Sopanov, director of the Center for the Protection of Monuments, the Saka era was rich in gold and artifacts, making these sites prime targets for looters. Authorities have been notified and are investigating. The incident underscores the ongoing vulnerability of historical sites despite protective measures.