Egypt Says Brit Tried To Smuggle Artifacts

Published February 26, 2012 9:09PM (EST)

CAIRO (AP) — Egyptian security officials say they have thwarted an attempt by a British man and his wife to smuggle 19 artifacts out of the country.

Police say the couple were stopped in Luxor International Airport on Sunday with pieces in their luggage ranging from Pharonic statues and pottery to a Greco-Roman bronze coin.

Security officials spoke on condition of anonymity in line with police rules.

Security around the country has deteriorated since last year's uprising when several pieces went missing from the Egyptian museum.

For centuries, Egyptian antiquities have been looted from the country, but authorities are demanding key pieces be returned.


By Salon Staff

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