3 persons arrested for trading in archeological artifacts in Assuit

CAIRO - 28 October 2019: The Egyptian authorities arrested three people for illegal excavation and possession of 64 artifacts in Assuit governorate, Upper Egypt.

According to a statement issued by the Egyptian Ministry of Interior on Sunday, the initial investigations revealed that a farmer, one of the three accused people, possesses some artifacts at his home to use them in illegal trade.

The confiscated artifacts date back to various eras. Also, the arrested people confessed their crimes, the statement added.





In early October, security forces in Giza arrested a criminal gang with 193 statues and a sarcophagus, dating back to the fourth dynasty of ancient Egypt, in their possession. The suspects have found the ancient pieces inside a cemetery in Giza. The Public Prosecution and the Tourism Ministry were notified to take the legal actions.

Law No. 117 of 1983 imposes a prison term of 5 to 7 years and a fine of not less than LE 5,000($284) and not more than LE 7,000 ($397) on anyone who is proven guilty of illegal excavation for antiquities.