Security agencies foiled an attempt to smuggle artifacts in Minya

CAIRO – 16 August 2017: Security agencies led by the Interior Ministry foiled an attempt to smuggle 52 rare artifacts in Minya. The items comprised of bronze, granite Paranoiac statues, and an array of ancient metal coins.


Ancient Coin – File Photo

Interior Ministry’s tourism and artifacts department in Minya received information about two citizens residing in Minya unlawfully. They harbored a trove of the Egyptian ancient treasure for the sole purpose of gaining illegal profiting. Implicated perpetrators arrested.


Restored Artifacts – File Photo

Antiquities' trafficking has been widespread in Egypt since January 25 revolution in 2011 and the ensuing security vacuum, whereby it became more apparent due to the ongoing harsh economic conditions.