Tolmachevo airport customs stopped the export of an “antique icon and kiot cross” in the hand luggage of a passenger on the Novosibirsk–Istanbul flight. Source: FCS Russia.
X-ray screening in the green channel revealed a cast icon “Burning Bush” and a kiot cross “Crucifixion” carried by a 38-year-old man. He said the items were for personal use.
Experts found they were made more than 50 years ago and are of cultural value. Export requires Ministry of Culture permission and a passenger customs declaration; neither was filed.
Novosibirsk customs opened two administrative cases: under Article 16.2(1) (failure to declare) and Article 16.3 (breach of prohibitions and restrictions).
