Police, in a joint operation with federal civil agencies, arrested an alleged inter-provincial smuggler accused of trafficking precious historical artefacts and plotting to steal antiquities from the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, officials said on Tuesday.
Details of the Arrest
According to police, the suspect, identified as Syed Lal Shah, was taken into custody during an intelligence-based operation carried out by the CIA, Shaheen Force IT Branch and an intelligence agency. Police said illegal weapons and other key evidence were recovered from the suspect during the raid.
Revelations During Interrogation
During initial interrogation, the accused allegedly revealed a plan to steal valuable historical items from Mohenjo-daro and smuggle them abroad through a route passing via Balochistan, officials said. Investigators believe the suspect was part of an organised network involved in the illegal trafficking of antiquities and other valuable items across provincial borders.
Ongoing Investigations
Police said efforts have been intensified to arrest the accused's accomplices and facilitators, while further investigations are under way to determine the scope of the smuggling network and recover any stolen artefacts. The authorities have not yet disclosed the exact location of the arrest or the quantity of artefacts believed to have been targeted in the alleged smuggling plan.
Significance of Mohenjo-daro
Mohenjo-daro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological remains of the Indus Valley Civilization, has long been considered a protected national heritage site.
