There is only one option here to save this server. Roll it back.
Majority of the people will quit if there isn't one rather than if the GMs simply check logs.
And I'm quite certain, the pissed off players who will be quitting, will recall their donations with it.
Shut the server down, roll it back and check the abusers who have been duping prior to 1-2 days ago and don't bring it back up unless it has a serious population cap or upgraded hardware. Its the only option.
I'm going to suggest the admins to make a rollback of a few days (max 5, when the item lags started).
New hardware is ordered so this problems should be fixed very soon. I'll post here the answer when i have it.
The answer for now is: NO rollback.
He also said he is checking logs and banning all abusers.