Europol: 38,000 stolen cultural treasures ensured – 80 arrests
In the fight against the international robbery of cultural assets, investigators and customs investigators have round 38,000 precious objects confiscated and 80 suspects arrested. The confiscated objects of the simultaneous action included works of art, coins, musical instruments, pictures and archaeological finds.
23 countries, including Germany as well as Interpol, Europol and the World College Organization were involved in the « Operation Pandora », said Europol in the Hague. The investigation continued and further arrests are expected.
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According to the information, the investigators also secure numerous metal detectors and tools that would be used for illegal excavations. « This underlines the continued threat from looting of cultural sites, » said Europol.
It is also looted under water
At the Mallorca airport, Spanish investigators had caught a passenger who wanted to smuggle ancient coins and a valuable antique ring to Germany. According to the Spanish police, the investigation led to the seizure of other cultural assets that had been looted from shipwrecks and excavation sites.
According to Europe, coins, arrow and lance tips from the Roman and Punic period were discovered in a private apartment – more than 2,000 years old. They were offered for sale on platforms on the Internet.
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Cyber investigator
Cyber investigators had also been used in the campaign. According to Europol, her work led to the opening of new cases. This shows that « digital platforms quickly become a preferred channel for marketing and selling stolen cultural assets ».
