Ministry of Antiquities Refers the Case of Missing Archaeological Relief to the Public Prosecution

In reference to reports circulated by several online news outlets regarding the disappearance of a limestone relief from the tomb of Khenti-Ka in the Saqqara archaeological area, Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, confirmed that all necessary legal measures have been taken, and the entire case has been referred to the Public Prosecution for investigation.

He explained that the tomb had been completely sealed and used as a storage site for artifacts since its discovery in the 1950s and had not been opened since 2019. Upon learning of the incident, a specialized archaeological committee was immediately formed, headed by Dr. Amr El-Tayeb, Supervisor of the Saqqara Archaeological Area, to inventory the tomb’s contents.

He added that as soon as the committee’s report was received, the matter was referred to the Public Prosecution on the same day for investigation. He emphasized that the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is closely following the progress of the investigation in coordination with the relevant authorities, out of its deep commitment to safeguarding Egypt’s archaeological heritage and protecting it from any violations or unlawful practices.