A handcuffed suspect stands in front of a backdrop displaying the logo of the Kurdistan Region Security Agency, with confiscated ancient coins laid out on tables. The operation was carried out by security forces to prevent the smuggling of historical artifacts. Photo published by the Directorate of Asayish in Sharazoor.
Various ancient coins
Halabja authorities seize smuggled artifacts, arrest five suspects
HALABJA – The Asayish Directorate in Sharazoor arrested five individuals and confiscated a large cache of smuggled archaeological artifacts in two coordinated operations, authorities announced.
After two months of surveillance, intelligence gathering, and investigation, security forces carried out operations under judicial orders in both Halabja governorate and the Said Sadiq district. The actions, aimed at preventing the illegal trade of historical items and curbing unauthorized excavations, resulted in the seizure of 1,444 ancient coins during the first operation, with support from the Kurdistan Commando unit. In a second operation, security forces confiscated three devices used for illicit archaeological digs and detained additional suspects.
The detainees have been charged under Article 24 of Law No. 5 of 2021 on the Management and Protection of Antiquities and Heritage in the Kurdistan Region. The law imposes strict penalties on anyone involved in the illegal possession, trade, or smuggling of historical artifacts. Under the law, individuals found in possession of an artifact who fail to report it to the relevant authorities within 90 days may face imprisonment and fines amounting to twice the artifact’s estimated value. Those convicted of stealing artifacts under national jurisdiction can receive up to 10 years in prison and a fine equal to six times the estimated value of the stolen item.
