Islamabad customs have successfully foiled a smuggling bid involving antiquities worth millions of rupees, reported the 24NewsHD TV channel.

 According to report, these invaluable artifacts, dating back to 3500 BC and originating from Balochistan, were en route to Afghanistan before being seized by customs officials.

The antiquities assessed by the Department of Archaeology, are estimated to date from 2600 to 3500 BC.

The collection includes pottery and copper digging tools, shedding light on ancient civilizations and their technological advancements.

The antiquities, hidden along with Iranian tamarind, shoes, and velvet cloths, were being transported to Rawalpindi from Motorway M14 via buses.

Upon examination, the Archaeology Department deemed the seized artifacts extremely valuable.

To ensure their preservation, customs officials securely housed the antiquities in the customs house under tight security.

Asif Hargan, Islamabad Customs Collector said that the operation was done on an information.

He said his team failed the smuggling attempt and subsequently arrested the individuals involved in the illicit transportation of these relics.

The Archaeology Department has formally communicated with customs authorities, expressing the need to acquire and safeguard these ancient artifacts for future generations.

Reporter: Farzana Siddique