Source: Focus Information Agency

Sofia. Four persons have been charged with involvement in an organised crime group for illicit trade in cultural artefacts, it transpired at a press briefing in the Special Criminal Court today, Focus News Agency reports.

Expert reports confirmed that the objects found are cultural artefacts of historical significance. The unique items are made of gold and are believed to be several thousand years old. They will be handed over to the National Archaeological Institute. One of the group members is an official from the State Agency for National Security. The prosecutors said up to now they have gathered evidence regarding four persons. The court will decide on their measures this afternoon, but the prosecutors will request remand in custody for all four of them.
On Monday seven people were detained in a joint operation, while attempting to complete the deal for the sale of a gold wreath weighing about 400 g, and the price asked was EUR 2 million. Two gold bracelets and a gold torc were also found during the operation. The torc weighs about a kilogram, and the two bracelets are about 250 g each.
The law enforcers received information about the criminal group at the end of July. The arrested SANS official coordinated the meetings between the suspects and the potential buyer

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