German vacationer arrested: ancient column discovered in the trunk!

German vacationer arrested: ancient column discovered in the trunk!

Patras, Griechenland - A 61-year-old German tourist was arrested in Greece after being caught with an ancient pillar in the trunk of his car. The arrest took place in the port city of Patras, while trying to travel to Italy by ferry. The Greek authorities not only confiscated the pillar, but also the vehicle as well as a cell phone and a laptop of the man. The German is suspected of having violated the Greek antique law, which is subject to strict punishments.

The accused was in custody for two days before he was brought before a judge. According to his defense, he bought the pillar on the Acropolis in Athens and was not aware that it was an antique object. He believed that it was just a dummy. However, the police do not believe this excuse and ordered further investigations. Ultimately, the tourist was released under conditions, but was banned from departure.

Legal foundations for antique trading

The illegal antique trade in Greece represents a serious crime that influences the country's cultural heritage. The Greek laws, in particular law No. 3028/2002, ensure that national cultural identity and history is protected. These legal provisions concern not only the export of historical objects, but also their possession, sale and trade without the approval of the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Article 54 of the law categorizes the antique trade as a serious crime that can be punished with serious punishments. In particularly serious cases, for example when trading with objects of considerable historical or archaeological importance, prison terms of up to ten years or even lifelong prison terms can be imposed. Fines for such violations can reach considerable heights and the confiscated assets are collected.

cultural heritage and international provisions

The problem of antique trade is not only national, but also internationally important. The EU Regulation (EC) No. 116/2009 regulates the export of cultural assets from the European customs area to protect the cultural heritage. In addition, there are international Convention, such as the 1970 UNESCO Convention, which aim to prevent illegal trade in cultural assets.

The affected categories of protected cultural assets range from objects before 1453 to certain artifacts from the period 1453 to 1830. However, the latter require special permits for export. The likelihood of an arrest for illegal export attempts is high, and Greek law provides for drastic punishments, including imprisonment of up to ten years for such violations.

The cases of antique trade and smuggling illustrate the need for effective legal representation in such complex affairs. Those affected urgently need legal help to avoid the often Severely consequences of a conviction. As the econlaw , easily understandable legal advice and defenses can make a decisive difference.