By The Star Staff
The Institute of Puerto Rican Culture (ICP by its initials in Spanish) and the FBI signed a vital collaborative agreement that promotes joint work against possible crimes against Puerto Rican heritage assets.
The two entities reaffirmed their commitment and efforts to protect and safeguard heritage and historical artifacts against crimes such as organized looting and illicit trafficking in selling pieces and works of art and culture. The agreement was finalized after an alliance was formed last April, which included a series of training sessions for the staff of both agencies, recognizing that good communication between the agencies is vital to effectively addressing possible threats, thefts or destruction of heritage assets.
“This agreement with the FBI represents a significant step in our fight against illicit trafficking and theft of art,” ICP Executive Director Carlos Ruiz said in a written statement. “Working together, we can better protect our cultural heritage and ensure that Puerto Rican works of art remain safe and accessible for future generations.”
According to the agreement, the ICP will receive support in educational efforts to prevent organized crime risks. Likewise, the two entities will strengthen communication channels, and technical and operational assistance will be coordinated for protection and security if necessary.
Joseph González, the special agent in charge of the FBI in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, noted that “protecting the People, which is part of our mission, also means protecting the cultural heritage of our people.”
“This agreement allows us to join forces and bring to the table the investigative tools that the FBI has to locate and repatriate artifacts of historical value that belong to the people of Puerto Rico, and that should be where the public can enjoy and appreciate them,” he said.
The ICP guards essential works of art, archaeological material, book collections and documents, and other heritage assets. By the numbers, the agency guards nearly 40,000 works of art and more than 20,000 archaeological artifacts. With the agreement, the ICP fulfills its mission of protecting, researching, preserving, and disseminating Puerto Rican culture in its diversity and complexity.
Comments