Libyan authorities have arrested a group of individuals suspected of illegally offering historical artefacts for sale, following an investigation led by the Tourist Police and Antiquities Protection Agency.
In a statement, the agency said the operation came after an extended period of surveillance and intelligence gathering targeting individuals suspected of trading cultural property in violation of national laws.
Investigators from the agency’s intelligence and information-gathering department reportedly identified the suspects through social media platforms, where they were allegedly advertising items believed to be ancient artefacts for sale. The discovery prompted authorities to intensify their inquiries and collect further evidence regarding the individuals involved.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Western Border Region Investigations Office of the Criminal Investigation Department. Prosecutors from the Tripoli Public Order Prosecution Office and the Zliten Prosecution Office also supervised the legal procedures linked to the case.
Authorities said all seized items have been secured and transferred to specialists at the Department of Antiquities for examination. Experts will assess whether the objects are genuine archaeological artefacts, determine their historical significance and identify the period to which they may belong.
The investigation remains ongoing, with legal procedures continuing in coordination with the relevant judicial authorities.
The Tourist Police and Antiquities Protection Agency stressed that Libya’s archaeological sites and historical objects form an essential part of the country’s cultural heritage and national identity. The agency reiterated that antiquities are protected under Libyan law and are classified as cultural property that must be preserved for future generations.
Libya is home to some of the Mediterranean region’s most important archaeological sites. Authorities have repeatedly warned against the illegal excavation, trafficking and sale of antiquities, which pose a threat to the preservation of the country’s historical legacy.