Diyala: The Federal Intelligence and Investigation Agency announced today the thwarting of a smuggling operation involving 60 archaeological coins and an archaeological seal in Diyala.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the agency revealed in a statement that through intelligence efforts and technical follow-up, their detachments specializing in combating organized crime in Diyala Governorate gathered information about an individual from outside the country. This individual was reportedly in possession of 60 archaeological coins and a seal, with the intention of smuggling them into Iraq for trade.

The agency further detailed that a specialized team was immediately formed to confirm the information and apprehend the suspect as he entered the country. The archaeological items were seized from his possession.

During the investigation, the suspect admitted to bringing the artifacts into Iraq unofficially for trading purposes, having transported them from a foreign country. His statements have been judicially verified, and he has been referred to the competent judicial authorities to face legal consequences.