Six men arrested in connection with a large-scale antiquities smuggling operation in rural Heraklion appeared before a court Thursday afternoon and were granted a postponement to testify until Monday, April 28.
The suspects face charges including participation in a criminal organization and multiple offenses related to the protection of antiquities and cultural heritage.
Additional charges include failure to declare metal detectors or other scanning devices, as well as weapons and drug-related violations.
According to police, the arrests were made during a covert operation as the suspects allegedly attempted to sell at least 46 ancient artifacts in a prearranged meeting.
The sting was conducted by officers from the Organized Crime Directorate with support from the Crete Organized Crime Unit and the Anti-Trafficking Division.
Defense lawyers described the charges as "maximalist," suggesting that the full context of the case will become clearer as the legal proceedings continue.