A case has emerged in Lithuania involving a Russian citizen who allegedly attempted to smuggle a mammoth tusk to Switzerland. According to preliminary investigation data, on April 10, 2025, the individual, N.I., used parcel service to send a shipment from Lithuania. However, he provided false information to the customs declaration service, claiming that the package contained petrified wood with a declared value of €3,250, which was substantiated by misleading documents.

Upon inspection, it was revealed that the actual contents of the shipment were greatly misrepresented, as the declared item did not match reality. The package was found to have contained a mammoth tusk instead of the stated petrified wood. This incident highlights a serious issue regarding the illegal trafficking of historical artifacts, posing ethical and legal challenges, especially in light of international regulations on wildlife and heritage protection.

The case has now been forwarded to the Kaunas District Court, where it is expected to undergo judicial scrutiny. Given the cultural significance of the item in question, the legal proceedings not only cover the implications of smuggling under Lithuanian law but also address international treaties which protect endangered species and cultural heritage. The outcome of this trial may set important precedents for future cases involving illegal trade in similar artifacts.