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Massive Counterfeit Art Ring Busted in Europe
Italian police uncover a large-scale European network trafficking in fake artwork by renowned artists, leading to numerous arrests and seizures.
Greek
Greece
EntertainmentInvestigationFraudSeizureArt CrimeForgeries
Italian PolicePest ControlPisa Prosecutor's Office
Pablo PicassoAndy WarholBanksyTeresa Angela CamelioAmedeo Modigliani
- When did the investigation begin and what triggered it?
- The investigation began in 2023 after authorities seized around 200 fake items from a businessman's collection in Pisa.
- What was the estimated value of the counterfeit artworks seized?
- Over 2,100 counterfeit artworks, potentially worth \u20ac200 million, were seized. Authorities also discovered six forgery workshops.
- What was the main discovery of the Italian police investigation?
- A Europe-wide network of counterfeit art was busted by Italian police. The ring produced and sold fake works by famous artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Banksy.
- How did the suspects try to enhance the credibility of their counterfeit works?
- To boost their credibility, suspects organized two exhibitions featuring fake Banksy art in Mestre and Cortona.
- How many individuals are under investigation in connection with the counterfeit art ring?
- Thirty-eight individuals across Italy, Spain, France, and Belgium are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the scheme.