They were seized as part of a specialized operation against illegal trade
The Turkish police have seized over 155 kilograms of precious stones and jewelry, including diamonds, rubies, emeralds, etc., worth a total of 9.4 million euros as part of a specialized operation against illegal trade, TRT Haber reported.
According to an official statement from the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s Office, the operation was carried out at 41 separate addresses, and in addition to the confiscated precious stones and jewelry, 35 people were also detained, accused of “illegal import and trade in precious stones” and “establishing an organized criminal group”.
A total of 155 kilograms and 602 grams of precious stones were seized during the operation, as well as 945 pieces of jewelry, which were found to have been imported into the country illegally. The total market value of the confiscated items is 445,750,000 Turkish liras, which is equivalent to nearly 9.4 million euros.
Long-term investigation
The operation is the result of a long-term investigation covering activities related to the import, transportation and illegal trade of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, quartz and jewelry.
The Ministry of Finance and Treasury announced that tax inspectors were also present during the searches, who participated in the inventory and evaluation of the seized valuables.
According to information from the prosecutor’s office, the search for six of the accused is currently ongoing.
Authorities emphasize that the operation is a serious blow against organized crime related to the illegal trade of luxury goods and precious stones in the country.
Illustrative Photo by Engin Akyurt: https://www.pexels.com/photo/assorted-rings-in-close-up-photography-12301235/
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First published in this link of The European Times.