Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Egypt seizes 577 ancient artifacts in anti-smuggling operation
Authorities in Egypt have successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle hundreds of valuable ancient artifacts, highlighting ongoing efforts to protect the nation's rich cultural heritage. The operation, carried out by the Tourism and Antiquities Police in cooperation with the General Security Sector, led to the arrest of a household goods trader in Minya, a city in Upper Egypt.
The suspect was found in possession of 577 items believed to be of archaeological value. Among the recovered pieces were statues, amulets, a sculpted head, pottery vessels, coins, and figurines, many made from ancient pottery. After thorough examination by experts, it was confirmed that all of the items are authentic antiquities, dating back to various periods of ancient Egyptian civilization.
The individual confessed that the artifacts had been unearthed from an excavation site in a nearby mountainous area and admitted to planning to sell the items illegally.
Egypt’s Ministry of Interior has taken legal measures against the suspect, reaffirming its commitment to preserving the country's invaluable archaeological treasures for future generations and to the world.