16th and 17th Century Stolen Artifacts Repatriated by U.S. to Nepal [Photos]

The United States has repatriated four ancient statues to Nepal that were unlawfully smuggled into the United States during various periods. The repatriation ceremony, organized by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, took place on Monday, where the sculptures were officially handed over to the Government of Nepal (GoN) through the Nepali Consulate General.

The statues, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, depict Hindu deities Bhairab, Shiva-Parvati (Uma Maheshwor), and Goddess Durga. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, led by New York County District Attorney Alvin Leonard Bragg Jr., collaborated with Homeland Security Investigation in conducting a meticulous investigation before facilitating the return of these culturally significant artifacts.

During the ceremony, District Attorney Bragg expressed his commitment to dismantling networks involved in the illegal trade of archaeological properties. He pledged to continue investigations into similar cases and assist in locating other archaeologically significant objects. The repatriation was a result of collaboration between the Nepali Embassy in New York and the District Attorney’s Office, with the Embassy actively seeking the return of the statues through repeated initiatives.

Acting Consul General Bishnu Prasad Gautam, who received the statues on behalf of the GoN, expressed gratitude to the American government for their cooperation in repatriating the artifacts. He also extended his thanks to the officials involved in the investigation. The statues will be transported to Nepal after coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Archaeology of Nepal, and other relevant authorities.