A marble head of Hermes, dating back 2000 years, was confiscated in Turkey during a police operation to uncover an antiquities smuggling ring.

Also found and confiscated were three rings, a marble plaque with writing on it, history books and other precious artifacts.

According to Turkish media, Police were preparing the sting operation for three months, carrying out raids in houses across the country.

Information states that three years ago, the head was almost sold abroad for one million dollars. Police were notified, but the marble head was never recovered.

Researchers confirmed that the artifact is not a fake but wanted to make no further comments before a study was concluded.

Fourteen people were arrested during the raid,  of which only four remain in custody, while 10 were released.