Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
A 71-YEAR OLD woman is being investigated after 32 pieces of ivory carved into elephant sculptures were discovered at her Valencia City house.
She faces charges of trafficking and smuggling.
The items had been put up for sale via the internet and were said to be worth €3.6 million in terms of damage caused to fauna.
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As part of ongoing investigations into the people trafficking of items that include protected species, the Guardia Civil discovered this elderly dealer in October.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, also known as CITES, has over 40,000 animal and plant species covered by its rules to stop their exploitation.
The Guardia discovered the 32 pieces being sold didn’t have any CITES certification, which is mandatory for sales.
All of the items were carved with scenes and characters from oriental culture. They were sent to experts for an analysis.
The Valencia court will now hear the case against the seller.
The Guardia Civil raided an antiques store in Valencia and seized 127 items of elephant ivory, one of the largest seizures of this type of item in Spain.
The Olive Press has more Valencia News. Click here to read it.
