Thousands of artifacts seized in Florida, USA

Authorities in the U.S. state of Florida have seized more than 22,000 ancient artifacts from around the world, some dating back 5,000 years, as part of efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in trafficking cultural property.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency stated in a report cited by The New York Times that the seized artifacts include vases, weapons, jewelry, and mosaic picture frames. The agency noted that this operation ranks among the largest seizures carried out by its Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit.

The artifacts also include Egyptian pharaonic statues, Byzantine glass vessels, and ancient Greek and Roman coins.

Mary Cook, senior advisor for the Cultural Property, Arts, and Antiquities program within the unit, said in a statement, “The artifacts whose authenticity has been established in this case are unique. Homeland Security Investigations is taking all necessary steps to ensure the preservation of the history of these civilizations for future generations.”

According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, preliminary assessments suggest that some of the items may date to civilizations that existed between 1,000 and 5,000 years ago, and were found at sites in Europe, Africa, and the eastern Mediterranean.

Authorities did not disclose where or when the artifacts were recovered, nor did they provide any details regarding arrests or charges. They added that officials will collaborate with university experts to help identify the items and verify their authenticity.

Officials stated that they hope to repatriate the artifacts to their countries of origin. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement emphasized that it “targets criminal networks involved in the theft, trafficking, and sale of antiquities,” such as those stolen from archaeological sites and museums.