Kochi: The state archaeology department has reported that 35 'antique' pieces possessed by the self-styled antique dealer Monson Mavunkal were fake. The department had carried out a detailed examination of the 'antique' items as per the request of the Crime Branch.

The archaeology department has also demanded a detailed examination of ‘Chembola’ (Copper plate), related to the Sabarimala Temple, in Monson’s collection. The department has submitted the preliminary report to the Crime Branch here on Sunday.

The investigation team needed an official confirmation from the archaeology department to proceed with the case on the fake antique deal. In this background, the Crime Branch approached the archaeology department and directed to examine Monson’s antique collection.

Tippu’s throne, brass vessels, lamps and tanpura in Monson’s collection were found fake.

The report of the archaeology department pointed out that the items in his collection have no value. More items in his collections will be taken for detailed examination.