Italian Authorities Dismantle Major European Art Forgery Network

Italian authorities have dismantled a network of European art forgers who produced fake works of renowned artists like Warhol and Banksy. The network used complicit auction houses to sell the counterfeits. Officials seized 2,100 fake art pieces potentially causing 200 million euros in economic damage.

In a major crackdown, Italian authorities have dismantled a sophisticated network of art forgers operating across Europe. The group specialized in producing counterfeit artworks attributed to iconic artists such as Andy Warhol, Banksy, and Pablo Picasso.

Investigations led to 38 individuals being placed under scrutiny, with the network capable of causing economic damage estimated at 200 million euros. Authorities seized over 2,100 fake art pieces across Italy, Spain, France, and Belgium.

The operation highlighted the involvement of complicit auction houses that issued false authenticity certificates. The probe began after uncovering 200 fake artworks at a Pisa businessman's residence in March 2023, prompting further investigation into online auction platforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)