Why are some ancient Yemeni inscriptions less useful to archaeologists than they could be?

Many ancient Yemeni inscriptions are less useful to archaeologists than they could be due to the practice of unscientific pillaging. This activity has deprived many of these artifacts of their historical value by removing them from their original archaeological context.1

When inscriptions are taken from their sites without proper documentation, researchers lose the ability to analyze the physical environment and stratigraphic relationships that provide essential clues about the culture, dating, and purpose of the texts. These inscriptions, which are written in Old South Arabian languages such as Sabaean, Minaean, Qatabānian, and Hadhramautic, are found on various materials including stone slabs, rock faces, and bronze tablets. Preserving the integrity of these sites is vital for maintaining the accuracy of the historical record.12