Greek authorities have dismantled a well-organized network trafficking fake artworks and antiquities, following a weeks-long undercover operation that led to the arrest of 13 suspects.
The ring attempted to sell a forged painting attributed to Spanish artist Pablo Picasso for €15 million, but during negotiations with an undercover officer posing as a collector, they agreed to lower the price to €10 million. The planned sale took place under strict surveillance, leading to the arrests.
Authorities also seized numerous counterfeit artworks along with a significant number of ancient coins and archaeological artifacts, which experts believe may have been obtained through illegal excavations or looting. Some items are suspected of violating cultural heritage protection laws.