Rare Moroccan fossils: trafficking dismantled in France

Mulhouse customs officers seized nearly hundreds of fossils from different countries including Morocco, Lebanon and the United States.

Major seizure on the RN 83, towards Strasbourg. During an inspection in early December 2024, Mulhouse customs officers discovered what they describe as a “paleontological treasure” hidden in a utility vehicle coming from Belfort (Territoire de Belfort). In total, nearly 200 fossils were hidden in boxes. Two retirees were in the vehicle. According to their explanations, they were returning from a mineral exchange in Belfort.