An ancient bracelet dating to about 3,000 years ago vanished from a restoration laboratory at Cairo’s Egyptian Museum, triggering a nationwide search and a criminal investigation, authorities said.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said the incident was reported to the Public Prosecution and that a special committee has been formed to inventory all items in the laboratory. The ministry also circulated an image of the bracelet across antiquities units at Egypt’s airports and border checkpoints in an effort to deter theft and aid in recovery.
Officials described the artifact as a single piece of metal that features a lapis lazuli sphere, a deep-blue gemstone prized by the ancient Egyptian ruling class.
Egyptian officials have linked the bracelet to Pharaoh Amenemope, who ruled during the 21st Dynasty from 993 to 984 B.C. The museum notes that Amenemope's tomb was discovered by French Egyptologists Pierre Montet and Georges Goyon in April 1940.
While Egypt is known for its careful preservation of artifacts, the incident comes as the country wrestles with broader debates over development near historic sites. Authorities noted that any findings would be pursued under the full weight of the law, and that all adjacent inventories are being checked to prevent a repeat of such losses.
There have been no public announcements of suspects or arrests, and authorities stressed that the investigation remains active.
Public appeals for information were issued, with investigators urging anyone with possible tips to contact authorities as the search continues.
Recovering the bracelet would be a major cultural milestone for Egypt, given the artifact's age, craftsmanship, and connection to the late pharaonic period.
Authorities said the investigation remains active and that updates will be provided by the Tourism and Antiquities Ministry as additional information becomes available.
