The FBI and Metropolitan Police are investigating the sale of suspected stolen treasures from the British Museum to US buyers.

Over a thousand items from the British Museum are reported missing or stolen.

Former curator Dr Peter Higgs is accused of involvement in the theft and sale of ancient artifacts, although he denies any wrongdoing.

Danish antiquities dealer Dr Ittai Gradel first raised suspicions of theft in 2021, leading to the discovery of 2,000 missing or stolen items.

The British Museum has recovered 626 out of 1,500 missing items and is working to prove ownership of uncatalogued items.

Gems sold by the alleged seller have been returned for further investigation.

Legal proceedings are underway against Dr Higgs, who has been ordered by the High Court to return any stolen items.

The FBI is contacting buyers, including one in New Orleans who purchased items on eBay.

The museum suspects items may have been sold to buyers in other countries.

The director and deputy director of the British Museum have resigned, and the museum has apologized to Dr Gradel.

The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI suspecting that hundreds of pieces may have been unlawfully taken.