Greek TV Art Expert Arrested in Antiquities Trafficking Investigation

Greek authorities have detained Giorgos Tsagarakis, a 51-year-old Athens-based art dealer and television personality, along with an employee, as part of an investigation into illegal antiquities trading. The arrests occurred last week following raids in upscale Athens neighborhoods that uncovered hundreds of potentially forged paintings, religious artifacts including a rare Gospel manuscript, ancient ceramics, Byzantine objects, cash, a firearm, and digital evidence. Tsagarakis, known for his role on the auction program 'Cash or Trash' and as owner of Galerie Tsagarakis, faces charges including fraud, forgery, money laundering, and cultural heritage violations. The investigation was reportedly aided by social media videos showing allegedly stolen items. Tsagarakis has denied the allegations, claiming the artworks are family heirlooms, and has been released on €50,000 bail while the inquiry continues into possible connections to thefts in Greece and Cyprus.