The theft of a pharaoh’s bracelet from a Cairo museum has sparked renewed concerns about tourism safety in Egypt, with security experts warning visitors about the dangers of pickpocketing, scams, and aggressive vendors. The incident, in which a specialist at the museum’s restoration laboratory stole and sold the artifact for around $4,000, has drawn international attention to the issue of crime in the region.
The stolen bracelet, once belonging to Pharaoh Usermaatre Amenemope, dates back 3,000 years. Despite its historical significance, the item was sold for a fraction of its estimated value, highlighting the stark economic conditions in Egypt. With an average monthly salary of around $160, the $4,000 price tag is seen as a fortune locally. Security expert Spencer Coursen noted that economic hardship creates an environment where opportunistic crime is more common, and that many locals view hustling tourists as a form of survival rather than crime.
Coursen, a former U.S. Army Ranger and founder of Coursen Security Group, emphasized the need for tourists to remain vigilant. He outlined four key pieces of advice, including avoiding isolated areas, not drawing unnecessary attention with flashy jewelry, and learning to say