In a significant move towards rectifying historical injustices, the United States has repatriated 133 antiquities, valued at approximately $14 million, to Pakistan. These artifacts, which were looted and illegally exported during the mid-20th century, were recovered through extensive investigations by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Background of the Case
The artifacts were primarily recovered from the extensive trafficking network led by Subhash Kapoor, a notorious art dealer convicted of trafficking thousands of antiquities from various countries. Kapoor’s network smuggled looted artifacts into Manhattan and sold them through his gallery, Art of the Past. Kapoor has been described as one of the world’s most prolific antiquities traffickers, responsible for smuggling artifacts worth over $143 million from numerous countries, including Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan ,D.A. Bragg Returns 192 Stolen Antiquities to Pakistan – Manhattan District Attorney’s Office US Returns 192 Stolen Artifacts to Pakistan.
Repatriation Ceremony
The repatriation ceremony was held at the Pakistan Consulate in New York. It was attended by Pakistani Consul General Ayesha Ali and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Acocella. During the ceremony, officials highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the returned artifacts and praised the collaborative efforts that led to their recovery.
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Among the returned items are several pieces of immense cultural value, including Gandharan sculptures and Mehrgarh Dolls dating back to 3500-2600 B.C.E. These artifacts represent the rich historical tapestry of the region, reflecting the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient civilizations US returns 192 stolen artifacts to Pakistan US returns 45 stolen antiquities to Pakistan – Daily Times.
Statements from Officials
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized the importance of holding those who traffic in stolen cultural property accountable. “We will continue to pursue full accountability against Mr. Kapoor and his co-conspirators, who showed a blatant disregard for the cultural and historic significance of these antiquities,” Bragg stated. He also noted the dedication of investigators and analysts who have worked tirelessly to recover and repatriate these stolen treasures,D.A. Bragg Returns 192 Stolen Antiquities to Pakistan – Manhattan District Attorney’s Office US Returns 192 Stolen Artifacts to Pakistan.
Consul General Ayesha Ali expressed gratitude for the return of the artifacts, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural heritage. “These objects belong to the Gandhara Buddhist civilization, having typical Greek and local influences and features,” said Bakht Muhammad, a senior researcher at the provincial Archaeology department in Peshawar. The Mehrgarh Dolls are considered among the earliest human-crafted figurines in the world, thought to represent mother goddesses or cultic figures for worship US returns 192 stolen artifacts to Pakistan ,US returns 45 stolen antiquities to Pakistan – Daily Times.
Broader Implications
The return of these artifacts marks a significant step in international efforts to address the illegal trade of cultural property. It also highlights the ongoing need for stringent measures to protect cultural heritage and ensure that stolen artifacts are returned to their rightful homes.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and VOA News websites.
