Archaeology Department tries to curb looting

The archaeology department has embarked on a nationwide series of lectures intended to curb the looting of Belizean artifacts. A government press release says the exercise is targeted at personnel from the Customs and Immigration Departments, the police and B.D.F. in addition to high school students. The three month training series, which is being facilitated by staff of the Archaeology Department, is focusing on the identification of artifacts. Archaeological Commissioner John Link says the police and B.D.F. are being involved because they will play a pivotal role in stemming the illicit trafficking of artifacts. While for high school students the lectures will hopefully go a long way in teaching them the importance of not only environmental conservation but also that of our cultural heritage.