Sudan Recovers 570 Looted Artefacts from National Museum
Ancient vases, figurines, and scarab amulets returned after months-long investigation; international agencies helped track the stolen treasures
- Sudan recovers over 570 looted antiquities
- Recovered items include vases, figurines, and scarab amulets
- The museum’s most valuable treasures, including the “gold room,” remain missing
Sudanese authorities on Tuesday displayed more than 570 recovered antiquities at a ceremony in Port Sudan, celebrating the return of items stolen from the National Museum in Khartoum during the country’s long-running war.
The recovered artefacts, including ancient figurines, ornate vases, and scarab-shaped amulets, were arranged under heavy security after months of investigation. They were returned to Port Sudan, the wartime capital, following extensive efforts to trace the looted items.
The National Museum, which once housed some of Sudan’s most significant archaeological collections, was looted and heavily damaged after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized Khartoum in the early stages of their conflict with the army, their former ally. Satellite images at the time showed trucks transporting artefacts westward toward Darfur, now entirely under RSF control.
Since then, Sudanese authorities have collaborated with UNESCO and Interpol to locate the stolen treasures. Officials did not provide details on how the items were recovered.
“Sudan’s heritage is not only of national importance; it is a treasure of humanity,” said UNESCO representative Ahmed Junaid, emphasizing global efforts against illicit trafficking of cultural property.
“Many people may not grasp the value of the objects on display, but they reflect the nation’s identity and history,” added Sudan’s Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim.
Information and Culture Minister Khalid Aleisir announced a financial reward for anyone returning looted antiquities, without specifying the amount. Authorities estimate that the recovered items represent roughly 30 percent of what was stolen.
Still missing is the museum’s “gold room”, containing its most prized collection: ancient jewellery and 24-carat gold artefacts, some nearly 8,000 years old.
