Israeli man detained in Turkey for over a week over ornamental bell, says family

An Israeli man has been under arrest in Turkey for over a week, after airport officials in Antalya found an ornamental bell that they claim is an ancient artifact and which he says he bought in a local market for $100, presenting a receipt and saying it is a mass-produced product.

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The Acre resident is suspected of attempting to smuggle an ancient artifact out of the country and the Turkish authorities are refusing to accept any intervention from Israeli officials in the case, Hebrew media reports.

His wife and children were allowed on the plane to depart Turkey last week at the end of a family vacation, and his son Shlomi has asked for help, speaking to several outlets.

“We need the help of the most senior officials in the country,” he tells Ynet. “My father is an older person with medical problems and his situation is not good. He wants to return home and is under very high mental pressure.”

Relatives have returned to Turkey to help release him. A local attorney has estimated that these efforts will take many weeks.