Ancient idols valued at over Rs 30 crore have been seized by security forces from a place along the Indo-Nepal border in Bihar, paramilitary force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) said here today.
An SSB patrol squad intercepted two suspected smugglers in Bathnaha area in north Bihar when they were trying to cross the border in suspicious circumstances.
"The troops noticed their suspicious movement and on checking recovered six metal figurines of Indian Gods and Goddesses of great archaeological importance," a statement issued by the force said.
The force said the "market value of these idols is assessed to be Rs 32 crore."
The apprehended duo disclosed that the idol of 'Ram-Janki' had been stolen from the Darbhanga Palace and they were taking it to Nepal to sell it to some international traders dealing in such items, they said.
