Khabarovsk customs prevented the “illicit export of cultural valuables from the Russian Empire era to China”. Source: FCS Russia.
During green-channel screening, X-ray inspection of a Russian national’s suitcase revealed 44 copper coins, 76 pectoral crosses and six miniature icons. The traveller said he was carrying the items as gifts for a friend’s private collection.
Experts found the coins are more than a century old and the crosses and icons more than fifty years old; all are cultural assets. Export requires permits and a passenger customs declaration.
The goods were seized. An administrative case was opened under Part 1 of Article 16.2 (failure to declare). A case under Article 16.3 (breach of prohibitions and restrictions) is under consideration. Fines and confiscation may apply.
