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ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Authorities in Greece have arrested six
people on the island of Crete in connection with an alleged
antiquities smuggling ring that was attempting to sell dozens of
ancient artifacts, police said Thursday.
The arrests came after a sting operation on Wednesday, during
which the suspects were reportedly trying to sell a collection
of antiquities. Investigators say the group operated as a
coordinated criminal network, with clearly defined roles,
including a leader, go-betweens, and a designated transporter.
Among the recovered items were 15 ancient oil lamps, 17
figurines or fragments, several ceramic vessels, and a marble
sculpture believed to depict a child’s head. All are thought to
date from various periods of ancient Greek history and will be
assessed by a state archaeological service.
Police also confiscated metal detectors and scanning equipment
believed to have been used to locate buried relics, as well as
firearms, ammunition, quantities of cannabis, and more than
3,000 euros ($3,200) in cash.
Greece, known for its rich archaeological heritage, has long
battled the illicit trade in antiquities. Despite strict
national laws, such artifacts remain highly sought-after on the
international black market.
All six suspects are facing multiple charges, including
membership in a criminal organization and breaches of cultural
heritage protection legislation.
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