bbc.com
Nighthawking Threatens Wales's Ancient Heritage
Illegal nighttime treasure hunting, or nighthawking, is damaging Wales's ancient sites, with police investigating 23 suspected incidents in two years, targeting Scheduled Monuments and resulting in the loss of potentially valuable artifacts.
- What is the immediate impact of nighthawking on Wales's historical heritage?
- In Wales, illegal nighttime treasure hunting, known as nighthawking, is damaging ancient sites. Police have investigated 23 suspected incidents in two years, focusing on Scheduled Monuments—areas of national importance. The stolen artifacts, sometimes worth millions, are often sold on online auction sites or through private networks.
- How are nighthawkers evading detection and profiting from the stolen artifacts?
- Nighthawking threatens Wales's heritage by destroying irreplaceable artifacts and historical context. The thieves target remote locations, exploiting the difficulty of detection. This illegal activity undermines efforts to preserve national treasures and understand Welsh history.
- What long-term strategies are needed to combat nighthawking and protect Wales's archaeological sites?
- The increasing use of technology like thermal imaging drones by Gwent Police may improve detection rates. However, the remote and often treacherous nature of the targeted sites presents ongoing challenges. The long-term impact on Wales' historical record depends on successful enforcement and public awareness.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames nighthawking as a significant threat to national heritage, emphasizing the negative consequences and law enforcement efforts. The headline itself, "Night-time treasure thieves threatening a nation's heritage," sets a dramatic and negative tone. While the article does acknowledge the existence of responsible metal detectorists, the emphasis remains on the illegal activity.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language to describe the nighthawkers and their actions, referring to them as "treasure thieves," "grave robbers," and engaging in the "darker underbelly" of metal detecting. Such terms are emotionally charged and contribute to a negative portrayal. More neutral alternatives could include phrases such as "illegal excavators," "individuals engaging in unauthorized excavation," or "those who violate archaeological site regulations.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the illegal activity of nighthawking and the efforts to combat it. While it mentions that most metal detectorists are respectful, it doesn't delve into the specifics of responsible metal detecting practices or the regulations surrounding legal treasure hunting. This omission might leave the reader with a skewed perception of the entire metal detecting community.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by portraying the metal detecting community as divided solely between respectful hobbyists and criminal nighthawkers. It overlooks the potential for a spectrum of behavior and motivations within the community.
Gender Bias
The article does not exhibit significant gender bias. While there are more male figures quoted (police officers and archaeologists), the inclusion of Sian Iles, a female curator, provides a balanced perspective.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the illegal activity of nighthawking, which undermines law and order and threatens national heritage. The theft of historical artifacts disrupts the preservation of cultural heritage and the rule of law.