The Peruvian Ministry of Culture has unveiled the results of DNA tests conducted on alleged 'humanoid mummies' that were discovered in a DHL shipment. The findings were presented on Friday, 12 January, following an investigation into the illicit export attempt.
The mummified remains were found in October in a cardboard box at a DHL warehouse in Callao, Lima province. The box, covered with sponges, contained two dolls dressed in fabrics and shoes adorned with diamonds and lace ribbons. Upon inspection, the items were identified as skeletal remains believed to be pre-Hispanic.
The dolls were seized and transferred to the Ministry of Culture for verification. Minister Leslie Urteaga emphasised the importance of protecting Peru's cultural heritage, stating, 'We work to protect heritage. We are vigilant so that our goods do not leave.'
The tests aimed to determine the origin and nature of the remains, which had sparked speculation about extraterrestrial origins. However, the ministry's announcement confirmed that the objects were archaeological artefacts, not alien life forms.
