Europol: Over 18,000 items seized in operation targeting cultural goods

BRUSSELS, July 29 (KUNA) -- Customs and other law enforcement authorities from 29 countries supported by Europol, INTERPOL and the World Customs Organization have joined forces against the trafficking of cultural goods.
Law enforcement authorities from the 29 countries assigned thousands of Police and Customs officers to focus on online market and key hot spots, with the aim of disrupting the activities of criminal groups involved in this form of trafficking, Europol, based in The Hague, said in a press release Monday.
In total, 59 individuals were arrested and over 18,000 cultural goods seized, including archaeological items, furniture, coins, paintings, musical instruments and sculptures.
Majority of the objects seized were from European countries; however, more than 30 items originated from Colombia, Egypt, Iraq and Morocco. (end) nk.hb