Ukraine seizes 2 rare violins at customs, smuggling attempt fails
Source: Zakarpattya Customs Office
A man was detained at the Zakarpattia customs checkpoint on Mondaywhile attempting to sneak out of the country two violins that allegedly date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
The incident took place at the “Malyi Bereznyi” customs post on the Ukrainian-Slovak border.
The violins were found in a Ford vehicle of a 69-year-old Ukrainian citizen when he was going through for the “green corridor,” that allows quick customs clearance policies but requires a traveller should declare items of ‘cultural value’.
The musical instruments were placed between the front seats of the car. Customs officers grew suspicious when they checked the provided passports for the violins and noticed discrepancies. The instruments were dated 1714 and 1873, while their documents stated they were made in the 20th century.
Customs officials are set to report the incident to law enforcement for further investigation. The violins have been confiscated, and their value will be assessed by an expert.
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