Morocco recovers nine 72-million-year-old dinosaur fossils from France

The fossils were seized in February 2025 by French customs services in Menton, southern France, during an attempted illicit trafficking operation. They were intercepted in an express freight truck traveling between Spain and Italy. The recovered lot includes nine Late Cretaceous fossils, dating back 66 to 72 million years, comprising dinosaur teeth, teeth of extinct marine reptiles, and specimens from species related to crocodile ancestors.

All these fossils originate from the Moroccan geological basin. The Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication stated that this restitution resulted from close coordination between Moroccan and French authorities, aligning with both countries' efforts to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property and preserve Morocco's natural and geological heritage. This operation highlights the increasing importance of protecting Moroccan fossils, which are frequently sought after in international markets due to their scientific and heritage value.

Authorities emphasize that these remains are national heritage, and their preservation is crucial for research and future generations. This restitution reaffirms Morocco and France's commitment to international cooperation in heritage protection.