Italian art police on Friday placed nine people under investigation and confiscated artefacts worth two million euros described by archaeological experts as ''important''.
A large votive mask, a terracotta statue of a female figure seated on a throne, vases, bronze objects, oil lamps and spear heads were among the object seized.
The police operation focussed on a gang of traffickers who had targeted an archaeological site south of Rome.
''We have reported an entire family,'' said art police chief Raffaele Mancino.
''The family owned a farm but actually managed an archaeological trafficking racket. They will now have to answer to charges of illegal excavation and handling of stolen goods''.
Lazio's archaeology chief Marina Sapelli Ragni said the finds meant archaeologists would have to re-investigate the site, which is located between Ardea and Aprilia.
''We have been excavating a sanctuary by the sea in the area for years. Among our new finds of particular interest are 50 votive masks like the one recovered,'' she said.
''The statue may represent (fertility goddesses) Demeter or Persephone,'' she added.
