Photo: Xinhua News Agency

Police in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have arrested 12 people for allegedly stealing more than 600 kilograms of vertebrate fossils, according to a report by the Xinhua News Agency, citing words from the local public security bureau of the Jungar Banner, Ordos.

The suspects were detained after the local police uncovered a theft ring suspected of illegally excavating ancient vertebrate fossils had entered the Jungar Banner. In a rugged, steep area, they discovered a tunnel with numerous branches and fossil fragments scattered nearby.

With the help of police dogs, a total of 12 suspects were arrested by local police. One of the suspects, identified as Jin, used his knowledge of geography and history, aiming to profit from the illicit trade of fossils. Jin allegedly enlisted others with excavation experience, including a suspect surnamed Wang, to unearth more than 600 kilograms of ancient fossilized vertebrates using professional tools.

So far, all 12 suspects have been taken into custody. Further investigations are underway.

Global Times