Suspects Caught Illegally Excavating for Treasure with Excavator in Turkey; 5 Detained

Authorities in Sakarya, Turkey, apprehended five individuals engaged in illegal treasure hunting using an excavator. The operation took place in the Akçakaya neighborhood, where the suspects were caught red-handed during their illicit excavation.

The suspects, identified as R.K. (43), O.A. (54), V.T. (54), Ç.Y. (44), and D.O. (54), were detained by gendarmerie teams. An examination of the site revealed that the group had used an excavator to dig a substantial pit, measuring approximately 8 meters in length, 3 meters in width, and 2.5 meters in depth, in their search for buried treasure.

Adding a layer of concern, it was learned that a similar incident involving illegal treasure excavation with heavy machinery occurred at the exact same location two years ago. On that occasion, four individuals were apprehended by authorities.

A formal investigation into the latest incident has been initiated. The discovery highlights a recurring issue of illegal treasure hunting in the region, often involving significant excavation efforts.