The ninth edition of Operation Pandora, an international operation targeting the trafficking of cultural goods, has led to 80 arrests and the seizure of 37 727 items including archaeological pieces, artworks, coins and musical instruments.
Codenamed Pandora IX and led throughout 2024, the operation involved law enforcement and customs authorities from 23 countries. It was coordinated by Spain (Guardia Civil), with operational support from Europol, INTERPOL and the WCO through its Regional Intelligence Liaison Office for Eastern and Central Europe.
Authorities also confiscated 69 metal detectors and 23 tools commonly used for illegal excavations, underlining the persistent threat of looting to cultural sites.
In total, 258 cases were reported by the participating countries. Many investigations are still ongoing, with further arrests and seizures expected.
Källa: 80 arrests and more than 37 700 cultural goods seized in major art trafficking bust | Europol
