Experts warn a spate of recent raids indicate that crooks are stealing items rich in precious metal to melt down for bullion as museums became the latest target on their hit list View 5 Images With gold prices soaring, thieves have turned their attention to a new target (Image: Getty Images)

Museums have become targets for organised crime gangs - due to the soaring price of gold . ‌

Experts warn a spate of recent raids indicate villains are stealing items rich in precious metal. ‌

Objects are not being stolen for their craftsmanship or cultural significance but their value once melted or re-cut. ‌

With gold now trading at £2,759 per ounce - a 40% increase on its value this time last year - museums are at risk.

The Art Loss Register - which has 700,000 artworks, an

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