Pre Colombian find at Motkreek

Inspectors from the Ministry of Natural Resources (NH) and the Maritime Police recently came across human bones and pieces of pottery during a regular inspection, prompting them to halt activities within the concession. Investigators believe that the remains date back to the period 1000 to 5000 AD.

Several institutes were notified of the discovery and the first field expedition took place on January 25. The field expedition was carried out by the Archeological Department at the Culture Directorate

(Irene Meulenberg) in association with Stichting Gebouwd Erfgoed Suriname (Stephen Fokké) and the Anton de Kom State University (Cheryl White). Investigators concluded that the shell sand diggings took place exactly above the spot where a urn field and cemetery were located. It is believed that an old Indigenous cemetery has been located. As a result of the sand shell diggings, artifacts and human remains have been damaged. The recent find has made it clear that historic sites could be destroyed due to the lack of legislation and regulation, connected policies and understanding about the value of PreColombian artifacts. The steering committee on Archeology at the Culture Directorate hopes that the recent finding will convince officials that it is time to implement the permit system as soon as possible.