PESHAWAR, Feb 12: The staff of the directorate of intelligence and investigation (customs, excise and sales tax) foiled an attempt to smuggle antiques, and seized millions of rupees statues here on Monday.

According to a press release issued here on Monday, the staff, on a tip off, raided Peshawar Airport’s Shaheen Cargo and took a box into custody. Search of the box led to the recovery of 18 ancient statues and other antiques, including one statue each of Buddah and Sudharta.

Legitimacy of the statues recovered was duly verified by the archeology department of Pesahwar University and city museum.

The press release claimed that the confiscated items might carry Rs500 million price value in the international market.