The Palestinian Authority police arrested two people who were transferring 2,571 ancient artefacts from the neighbourhood of Halhoul to the city of Hebron, Safa news agency reported yesterday.

In a statement, the police said Tourism and Antiquities Police had received information that a large haul of ancient artefacts was being transported to Hebron. Officials set up a flying checkpoint at the highway between Halhoul and Hebron to intercept the transfer of the goods.

Two passengers in a taxi found to have the 2,571 artefacts in it were arrested. They admitted possession of the items.

The suspects are to be held for 24 hours and their case is being transferred to the Public Prosecutor for investigation and legal procedures to be taken against them.

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