In connection with the robbery, three suspects have been arrested in Heerhugowaard, a city located about 114 miles from Assen. However, despite the arrests, the stolen artifacts have yet to be recovered. Local police are continuing their investigation and have released the names and photographs of two of the suspects,
Douglas Chesley Wendersteyt and Bernhard Zeeman, in hopes of gathering further information about their movements and any connections that could lead to the recovery of the stolen items.
Police have identified a third suspect, a woman, but have not disclosed her name and are not ruling out the possibility of additional individuals being involved.
The Gold Helmet of Cotofenesti remains missing after being stolen from the Drents Museum in Assen, Netherlands, during a robbery on Saturday, January 25, 2025. Thieves used explosives to break into the museum and steal four priceless artifacts, including the 2,500-year-old helmet, which is a national treasure in Romania.
The theft is considered a significant loss for Romania, as the helmet is an irreplaceable symbol of their heritage.
“The safe return of the stolen artifacts would be a fantastic next step for all involved," the Drents Museum said in its own statement. “Not only for us, but especially for the Romanian people.”
The thieves stole priceless archaeological artifacts, including this 2,500-year-old gold helmet considered a national treasure in Romania.
-J.Larson
