Greek authorities uncovered a macabre find during a raid on the home of a 77-year-old man in Athens under investigation for antiquities smuggling: a glass vessel containing a preserved human fetus.
The suspect, who was arrested during the operation, faces charges under Greece’s strict laws protecting antiquities and cultural heritage. The raid was carried out by officers from the Organized Crime Division’s special unit on trafficking and illicit trade. In addition to antiquities violations, the man is also accused of disobedience and embezzlement.
According to police, a search of his residence revealed 39 ancient and possibly ancient artifacts. Among them were marble and clay vessels and heads, figurines, cups, an amphora, a jug, oenochoe (wine jug), ladles, ostraca, and a stone fragment.
This was not the first time the elderly suspect came under scrutiny. He had previously applied for a license to possess 28 items believed to be ancient, but authorities approved only 12. The remaining 16, deemed to be of significant scientific and artistic value, were ordered to be handed over to the Archaeological Service.
However, he refused to surrender them. As a result, his license was revoked, and although he was later convicted in court, he continued to withhold the objects.
The 77-year-old has since been brought before the prosecutor to face the latest round of charges, while investigators are working to establish the origins and authenticity of the seized items—including the disturbing find of the fetus in a jar.
