The SBU Office in Poltava region officers prevented smuggling of cultural valuables to Russia.

According to the preliminary investigation, the local collector planned to illegally move through the state border ancient collection of religious ritual items. He searched clients among his friends-foreigners.

The attacker was detained at the checkpoint “Yunakivka" of Sumy region. Among the personal belongings of the offender, the law enforcement officers found hidden from customs control two icons, the sacramental cross and the Bible in old Slavonic language dated the 19-th century.

Currently seized items have been sent to appropriate examinations.

The criminal proceeding was initiated under Part 1 Art. 14, Part 1 Art. 201 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The investigation is ongoing.