Australia returns smuggled fossils to China
(Reuters)
Updated: 2005-09-30 13:41

CANBERRA -- Australia has returned 10,000 fossils dating back millions of years, including fossils of dinosaur eggs and ancient turtles, that had been illegally exported from China.

The valuable fossils were seized by Australia's Department of Environment and Heritage following a request from China in 2003, Australian Environment Minister Ian Campbell said in a statement on Friday.

"Some of the fossils are up to 230 million years old with a total value of between A$4 million ($3 million) and A$5 million," Campbell said.

"Their recovery and return to the Chinese people will help ensure they are protected for future generations."

Justice Minister Chris Ellison said some of the fossils had been bought by Australians who were unaware they were purchasing illegal Chinese exports.

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