Investigators believe the theft of several ancient statues dating back to the Roman era from Syria's national museum was likely the work of an individual, not an organised gang, officials said.

The National Museum of Damascus was closed after the heist was discovered early on Monday.

The museum had reopened in January as the country recovers from a 14-year civil war and the fall of the 54-year Assad family rule last year.

On Wednesday, a security vehicle was parked outside the main gate of the museum in central Damascus while security guards stood nearby. People were not allowed in because of the ongoing investigation.

Two officials from Syria's Directorate-General for Antiquities and Museums said that progress has been made in the investigation and that results are expected soon

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