UK investigates WW2 shipwreck looting claims

[Jimbuna]

Absolutely disgraceful but sadly, they aren't the first and probably won't be the last

The UK will investigate allegations that British World War Two wrecks in Asia have been targeted by scavengers, the defence secretary says.

Gavin Williamson said he was "very concerned" to hear claims that four shipwrecks off the Malaysian and Indonesian coasts had been looted.

The Mail on Sunday said HMS Tien Kwang, HMS Kuala, HMS Banka and SS Loch Ranza were targeted for their metal.

They are thought to be the graves of Royal Navy sailors and civilians.

It comes after six wrecks, including Royal Navy battleship HMS Prince of Wales and battlecruiser HMS Repulse, were reported to have been damaged or destroyed by thieves.

The UK government "absolutely condemns" the unauthorised disturbance of any wreck containing human remains, Mr Williamson said.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-45238158