Assen

Assen is a city in the Netherlands, notable recently due to a high-profile theft at the Drents Museum in January 2025. The museum was targeted in a heist involving explosives, resulting in the theft of a 2,500-year-old gold helmet from Cotofenesti and three gold bracelets, part of a treasure from the ancient kingdom of Dacia. These artifacts were on display at the museum at the time. The theft garnered international attention. In April 2026, news emerged that the gold helmet and two of the three bracelets had been recovered following a deal between the perpetrators and the public prosecutor. One bracelet remains missing. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the assault. The recovery of the stolen artifacts highlights ongoing efforts to combat art crime and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.