21.10.2026 11:05
In Edirne, during searches of two trucks heading out to Greece at the İpsala and Kapıkule border crossings, a total of 7,160 historical artifacts were seized. In İpsala, 5,685 coins, 130 arrowheads, 100 rings, and 20 accessories hidden in the food and supply cabinet in the trailer of the truck sent for X-ray scanning were found. At Kapıkule, 1,225 undeclared coins were found in the truck. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
In two separate operations carried out at customs gates in Edirne, 7,160 historical artifacts were seized.
5,685 COINS HIDDEN IN A FOOD CABINET
In a statement by the Ministry of Trade, the first operation was carried out by teams of the İpsala Customs Enforcement, Smuggling and Intelligence Directorate. A truck arriving at the İpsala Customs Gate to exit from Turkey to Greece was referred for X-ray scanning in line with suspicion and risk criteria. During the detailed search, a total of 5,935 cultural assets were seized, including 5,685 coins, 130 arrowheads, 100 rings and 20 various accessories hidden in the food and supply cabinet in the trailer.
1,225 MORE COINS AT KAPIKULE
In the second operation at the Kapıkule Customs Gate, as part of routine checks, a truck that was to exit to Greece was directed to X-ray scanning. During the detailed search of the vehicle, 1,225 undeclared coins qualifying as historical artifacts were seized.
In the Ministry's statement on the matter, it was stated that the fight to protect cultural heritage and prevent historical artifact smuggling continues resolutely, and it was noted that investigations into both incidents are ongoing before the relevant Chief Public Prosecutor's Offices.