In a coordinated operation in the Peloponnese, the Organized Crime Management Directorate (AIO) dismissed a criminal organization active in the illegal possession and sale of ancient objects and religious images. Six people were arrested in totalbetween them abbot and a monk Monastery of Achaia.
The organization, according to a police statement, operating at least since July 2025, had structured action to acquire and sell antiquities in both Greece and abroad. Its members were located by people who occupied ancient objects and brought them into contact with 69 -year -old leaderwho appeared as a “special appraiser” to complete the sales.
During the surveys in houses and other places, they were seized:
- 264 currency
- 14 religious images
- 2 Sacred Gospels and an 18th -century religious book
- 2 hunting weapons and 262 cartridges
- Above 12.800 euro in cash
- Metal detection machine and other objects associated with archaeological excavations
Those arrested are accused of participating in a criminal organization, embezzlement, illegal possession of arms and violating cultural heritage legislation. They were taken to the prosecutor, requested and received a deadline to apologize on Thursday.
The origin of the confiscated relics is being investigated, and will be delivered to the Ministry of Culture and the Monetary Museum for guard and appreciation.