Historic Bust: “Operation Sardica” Recovers Thousands of Stolen Treasures
SOFIA — In a landmark victory for cultural heritage, a massive international crackdown has dismantled a criminal network responsible for trafficking Bulgaria’s history to the highest bidders in Western Europe.
The operation, coordinated by Eurojust and Europol, culminated early this morning with the arrest of 35 individuals across Bulgaria and neighboring countries. Authorities seized over 3,000 artifacts in a single sweep, bringing the total recovery to more than 7,000 items since the investigation began.
The “Sardica” Connection
The criminal ring, operating with near-industrial efficiency, is accused of conducting illegal excavations at protected archaeological sites throughout the Balkans. Among the recovered items are priceless Thracian gold jewelry, Greco-Roman pottery, and ancient coins dating back to 2,000 BC.
What Happens Next?
The recovered artifacts are currently being cataloged by experts at the National History Museum. The dismantled network faces charges of organized crime and cultural heritage trafficking, with prosecutors seeking maximum sentences to deter future looting.
