On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in Kythira, officers from the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime arrested a Greek national. The suspect is charged with the illegal possession and attempted sale of antiquities online.
According to the official press release from the Greek Police Headquarters, the case began when the defendant posted on social media, offering an ancient coin for sale.
Acting on the information, officers from the Sub-Directorate for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Goods, in cooperation with the Kythira Police Department, carried out targeted searches of the suspect’s properties (residences, stores, and warehouses).
During the investigations, the following items were found and seized:
- 20 currencies (among which was the one shown in the online post).
- 3 shells Minoan period.
- 1 metal detector (includes 2 batteries, 2 scanning discs, and a carrying case).
- 1 air pistol with a cartridge and 3 gas cartridges.
The confiscated items were examined by an archaeologist from the relevant Ephorate of Antiquities. According to the expert opinion, four (4) of the coins and three (3) of the pottery shards fall under the protective provisions of the legislation on antiquities. The remaining sixteen (16) coins require further archaeological investigation.
Charges were filed against the arrested individual for:
- Misappropriation of cultural artifacts
- Violation of the obligation to declare a monument
- Violation of the requirement to declare metal detectors/screening devices
- Violation of firearms laws.
The suspect will be taken to the appropriate prosecutor's office for further action.
