Turkish police recover precious antiquities in Mersin

In a major anti-trafficking operation in Mersin, Turkish police confiscated 34 historically significant items, including ancient coins, and detained a suspect

The Mersin police force in Turkey has successfully recovered a collection of ancient coins and objects in a significant operation against trafficking of antiquities. The raid was executed in the Tarsus district of the city and resulted in the seizure of 24 coins and 10 other artifacts believed to hold historical value.

The operation was spearheaded by the Tarsus Office of the Anti-Smuggling Crimes Branch Directorate (KOM) of the security directorate in the Mersin province. Their efforts focused on an individual M.Y., identified only by his initials, suspected of unlawfully possessing these antiquities.

After the raid, M.Y. was detained for further legal proceedings, and the seized artifacts were taken for in-depth analysis. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the origin and historical significance of these items and to dismantle any larger networks involved in the clandestine trade of antiquities.

As the investigation unfolds, the primary goal remains to comprehend the full scope of this trafficking operation and to thwart future illegal endeavours that endanger preserving Turkey’s cultural heritage.

Tarsus is part of the larger Mersin metropolis on the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey and holds a unique place in history. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world and has been a hub of various civilizations, including the Hittites, Romans and Ottomans. Tarsus is also known as the birthplace of St. Paul and has been a key location in numerous historical events. This deep-rooted and diverse historical presence makes Tarsus not just a magnet for historians and archaeologists but also for antiquities traffickers.

Source: İHA