US returns 41 stolen artworks to Türkiye, worth over $8 million

The United States has returned 41 stolen works of art to Türkiye, estimated to be worth more than $8 million.

The artifacts, which were illegally smuggled out of Türkiye, were handed over during a ceremony held by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office in New York. The event was attended by Turkish Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gökhan Yazgı, alongside local officials and representatives, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media. 

The returned artworks were recovered as part of an international joint investigation, underscoring the vital role of cross-border cooperation in tackling the global issue of art trafficking. The operation, which involved collaboration between US and Turkish authorities, successfully intercepted the illicit trade of these valuable cultural items.

The collection of artifacts includes ancient sculptures, pottery, and other pieces with significant historical and cultural value to Türkiye. 

By Sabina Mammadli