Abu Dhabi police arrest men with ancient gold coins
Cops in Abu Dhabi have arrested three men caught with historical gold coins worth Dhs2.5 million.
The coins were once used as currency in ancient Islamic regimes in Arabia. The Arab suspects, aged between 28 and 29, were caught in the capital by CID officials. The coins were 23 and 24 carat gold.
Police said the men had been trying to find a buyer. It is not clear how the suspects acquired the coins but police said the men had been under surveillance since the force received information about their activities.
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Trading in items such as old coins is not allowed under UAE law as it is in violation of the security of the country's antiquities and heritage. (Picture used for illustrative purposes only)
Major General Mohammed Al Awadi Menhali, chief of police operations at Abu Dhabi Police, said police seized five gold coins.
He added that trading in such items was not allowed under UAE law as it is in violation of the security of the country’s antiquities and heritage.
The men, including two truck drivers, are believed to have brought the coins in from a neighbouring country.
Menhali added that the UAE is committed to fighting illegal trading in antiquities and cultural property.
The suspects have been referred to Abu Dhabi Public Prospection for further investigation.
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