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Poland Weighs Extraditing Russian Archaeologist Detained in Warsaw Over Illegal Excavations in Crimea
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Ukraine has filed a request for Poland to extradite a Russian archaeologist, Alexander Butiahin, detained in Warsaw, so he can face proceedings over alleged illegal excavations in Russian-occupied Crimea, according to RMF24 on December 23.
RMF24 said the request has already been sent to the Warsaw district prosecutor’s office, which must then examine whether any mandatory grounds exist that would bar surrender.
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The outlet added that prosecutors will forward the request to a court, along with their position, and are likely to seek an extension of the suspect’s temporary detention, which is due to expire on January 13. The final decision on extradition will rest with the court.
Ukrainian prosecutors stated that the suspect had organized or led archaeological work in temporarily occupied Crimea since 2014 without authorization from Ukrainian authorities, including at the ancient site of Myrmekion in Kerch.
This activity partially damaged a protected cultural heritage site. Ukrainian authorities estimated the damage at more than $4.7 million.
Earlier, it was reported that Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence published evidence alleging Russia looted more than 170 artifacts from occupied areas, including items taken during illegal excavations at sites in Crimea.
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