On Saturday evening, February 14th, Australian police discovered a Toyota HiAce campervan in the parking lot of the Riddell Bay ferry terminal. Investigators reported that they found nearly all the Egyptian artifacts that were stolen the previous Friday morning from the Abbey Museum of Arts and Antiquities near Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, with the exception of a wooden statue of a cat. The artifacts were largely intact, with only minor damage.

A few hours later, authorities located a 52-year-old man on Russell Island, who was found in possession of the last missing artifact. He was subsequently taken to the Cleveland Police Station.

Inspector David Harbison stated that the police do not believe the man was attempting to sell the items but declined to provide further details about his motives. He mentioned that the man had been traveling along the coast and that the alleged theft seemed opportunistic, describing it as a concerning crime. He emphasized that the artifacts are invaluable and highly treasured, leading them to initially conclude it might have been the work of an organized crime syndicate. However, it soon became clear that this was not the case.

The man, who does not have a permanent address, has been charged with multiple offenses after breaking a window at the Abbey Museum of Arts and Antiquities and taking several priceless artifacts before trying to flee to Russell Island. He is scheduled to appear in the Cleveland Magistrates Court on Monday.

The museum expressed its deep gratitude to the police for their response during the investigation. They also conveyed their relief and appreciation for the return of the artifacts, although they noted that the items cannot be displayed immediately. Each piece will need to undergo assessment and specialized conservation to ensure their long-term safety.