Iraq Foils Rare Antiquities Smuggling

Iraqi customs officers have foiled an attempt to smuggle 570 rare antiquities out of the country, the Al-Ittihad newspaper reported Sunday. 

Customs service director general Hamid Shokr Mahmud said the pieces had been hidden in the fuel tank of a vehicle, but gave no other details. 

Iraq boasts an estimated 10,000 archaeological sites, including the Sumerian civilization dating back to 2,500 BC. 

The government has banned exports of works of art and even modern pieces require an export license in a bid to protect the national heritage – BAGHDAD (AFP) 

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