In August 2015, Mohamad Yassin Alcharihi smuggled a Syrian mosaic into California during a time when ISIS was destroying Syria's ancient heritage for profit.
Alcharihi falsely declared to customs that his shipment contained 81 modern vases and tiles from Turkey, while it concealed an ancient mosaic worth $12,000.
This case highlights not only the illegal trade of cultural artifacts but also the profound irresponsibility shown by individuals who profit from the destruction of heritage.
The timing of Alcharihi's crime, coinciding with the torture and execution of cultural protector Khaled al-Asaad, underscores the moral bankruptcy in commodifying looted artifacts.
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