Major antiquities smuggling ring busted in Izmir, over 3,380 artifacts seized

Turkish police seize over 3,380 artifacts from ancient civilizations, busting a major smuggling operation in Izmir, as they raided nine locations and arrested key suspects

Turkish authorities have seized over 3,380 artifacts from various historical periods including the Classical, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras in Izmir, marking one of the largest recoveries of cultural heritage items in recent years.

Department of Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime of the Izmir Provincial Police Department spearheaded the operation.

After extensive technical and physical investigations, officers conducted coordinated raids at 9 locations across Bornova, Konak, and Odemis.

Officers recovered 3,036 coins and 339 historically significant items such as arrowheads, weights, and statuettes. They also confiscated 2 antique revolvers and 3 antique swords, shedding light on the extensive network behind this smuggling operation.

During the raids, police detained 5 suspects. Authorities arrested 1 individual following a court hearing, while they initiated legal proceedings against the others involved.

Source: Newsroom