In a rural area of Turkey, four individuals were caught conducting an illegal excavation that led to the discovery of a remarkable 2,000-year-old Roman mosaic. The operation, carried out by local law enforcement, resulted in the seizure of the historical artifact and the arrest of the suspects. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of illicit excavations and the trafficking of cultural heritage in the region.
Illegal Excavation Reveals a Hidden Roman Treasure
The Gendarmerie Command in Zile, a district in Turkey, discovered that illegal excavation activities were taking place on a shared plot of land in a rural area. During the operation, suspects F.Ş. (47), M.Ş. (45), and Ş.Ş. (49) were caught in the act of illegal digging. Upon further investigation, authorities uncovered a Roman mosaic, estimated to be 3 meters by 3 meters in size.
Excavation Suspects Arrested and Sent to Court
The authorities revealed that the suspects had attempted to conceal the excavation site by covering it with sacks. Following the operation, the suspects were charged under Turkey’s Cultural and Natural Heritage Protection Law (No. 2863) and sent to court.
While M.Ş. and Ş.Ş. were placed under judicial control, F.Ş. and his son A.Ş. were arrested and sent to Zile M-Type Closed Prison.
Historical Artifact to be Examined by Experts
The recovered Roman mosaic is set to undergo detailed examination by experts. Additionally, it has been reported that the individuals involved in the illegal excavation had been attempting to sell the mosaic to a contact in Italy. This highlights the ongoing issue of illegal artifact trade and trafficking.
Efforts to Combat Illegal Excavations and Artifact Trafficking Intensify
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of combatting illegal excavations and the trafficking of cultural heritage. Authorities have announced that inspections and monitoring efforts will be increased to prevent such illegal activities in the future.
Cover Image Credit: IHA
