Rome
CNN
–
Italian police say they chased German tourists after they found him transporting ancient Roman artifacts to rental e-scoaters.
The officer arrested the 24-year-old on Wednesday evening after being found zipping historical history via Veneto near the US embassy at the 30-kilometer (66 pounds) marble base of an ancient pillar between his legs.
The archaeological supervision of Rome described artifacts as “historical interest.”
Police said tourists told them he had obtained it as a “souvenir” but it is unclear whether he paid anyone for it.
Police said the man has not been charged but is currently under investigation to “receive stolen cultural goods.” They didn’t reveal his name.
Archaeological experts are still studying artifacts and determining where they were taken from.
Tourists who behaved badly have long been a nuisance to Italian authorities.
In recent years, tourists have been arrested on mopeds climbing down Spanish stairs, driving e-scooters and Maseratis, carving their initials into the Colosseum in Rome, and climbing into ancient ruins of Pompeii.
In February, New Zealand tourists were fined for jumping into the Trevi fountain.
Earlier this month, American tourists had to undergo emergency surgery after being thrust into a spire after trying to climb the fence surrounding the ancient Roman Colosseum.
