via Khmer Times, 31 August 2020: Andre Malreaux served as the French Minister of Cultural Affairs and was also once caught red-handed for looting bas-reliefs from Banteay Srei.
Pretending to be mere sightseeing tourists and scholars, Malraux, Clara, and their friend Louis Chevasson received special permission from the authorities to explore the Banteay Srei site. However, their true plan was to search for artifacts and items that could be sold to art collectors and museums. They had some bas-reliefs removed from the temple and took them back to Phnom Penh, where they were immediately apprehended by the authorities. The arrest was ordered by none other than George Groslier, the C
Source: André Malraux: big hero or ‘little thief’? – Khmer Times
