Dinajpur: Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has transferred seven ancient statues and archaeological artifacts, recovered during various operations in Dinajpur, to the Department of Archaeology for preservation. Dinajpur Battalion (42 BGB) formally handed over the artifacts to Md Shihab Hossain, Assistant Custodian of Kantanagar Archaeological Museum in Kaharole, Dinajpur, confirmed a press release issued by the paramilitary force.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, BGB regularly conducts operations along the border to combat smuggling, drug trafficking, human trafficking, arms trafficking, and the illegal trafficking of archaeological artifacts, in addition to its border security responsibilities. On July 5, 42 BGB recovered three ancient stone statues during operations in Belaichundi Malipara of Parbatipur upazila and Ichhail area of Kaharole upazila in Dinajpur. Four other artifacts recovered from various areas of Biral and Khansama upazilas had been kept in BGB custody.
Following court orders and directives from relevant authorities, all seven artifacts were handed over to the Department of Archaeology to ensure their proper preservation. Previously, on April 30, BGB transferred three ancient stone statues weighing 30.6kg, 30.37kg, and 45.37kg to the Custodian of Paharpur Archaeological Museum in Badalgachhi, Naogaon. On May 11, another ancient stone statue weighing 9.54kg was handed over to the Custodian of Kantanagar Archaeological Museum.
Dinajpur Battalion Commander Lt Col Abdullah Al Moin Hasan emphasized the significance of archaeological artifacts as crucial evidence of a nation’s history, heritage, and cultural identity. He stated that BGB prioritizes preventing their illegal trafficking and destruction by enhancing intelligence surveillance and conducting regular operations in border areas. Recovered artifacts are being handed over to appropriate authorities for their preservation.