Europe-wide operation breaks up years-long antiquities trafficking network
A criminal network that trafficked stolen artefacts worth nearly €1 billion across Europe has been dismantled, resulting in 35 arrests and the recovery of 3,000 items.
READ MORE : http://www.euronews.com/2025/11/21/europe-wide-operation-breaks-up-years-long-antiquities-trafficking-network
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00:00The Bulgarian General Directorate for Combating Organized Crime and Sofia City Prosecutor's Office announced that 35 Bulgarians were arrested for antique trafficking in an international operation involving Europol.
00:14Many treasure hunters, dealers, and high-level traffickers were detained both in Bulgaria and elsewhere in a coordinated operation spanning eight countries.
00:23Bulgaria requested Europol support almost two years ago. Because of the complexity of the case and the intensive investigation measures needed, we have proposed to set up a kind of an operational task force with Bulgaria, Europol, but also European and non-European countries.
00:42The criminal network has operated for 16 years across Western Europe.
01:11The United States and the Balkans. They have many subcontractors in other countries ranging in specialties and professions.
01:18In Greece, archaeologists and professors were arrested after evidence suggested they were involved in the scheme.
01:25In addition to international trafficking of historical valuables, members of the group are also being investigated for money.
01:32laundering and other financial offenses.
01:33In addition to international trafficking of historical valuables, members of the group are also being investigated for money laundering and other financial offenses.
01:39In addition to international trafficking.
01:40In addition to international trafficking of historical valuables, members of the group are also being investigated for money laundering and other financial offenses.
01:46In addition to international trafficking.
01:47In addition to international trafficking of historical valuables, members of the group are also being investigated for money laundering and other financial offenses.
01:53In addition to international trafficking of the group are also being investigated for money laundering and other financial offenses.
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