The FBI director, Kash Patel, has returned a collection of culturally significant artefacts from the Papua region of Indonesia to President Prabowo Subianto.

The items, including stone axes and ceremonial objects linked to indigenous Dani, Asmat, and Sentani tribes, were illegally smuggled into the US and have now been repatriated as part of ongoing cooperation between Indonesian authorities and the FBI.

These artefacts hold deep cultural value for Papuan communities, serving as markers of social status, wealth, and ceremonial exchange across generations.

The return marks a significant step in Indonesia's efforts to restore its cultural sovereignty, with the ministry planning to display the items at the National Museum.This action follows previous repatriation efforts, such as the return of bronze sculptures depicting Buddhist deities looted during colonial times.

Indonesia has intensified its focus on recovering artefacts held overseas, many of which were taken during the colonial period or through illegal trafficking networks.The repatriation process underscores broader global discussions about cultural restitution and the ethical implications of historical looting.