Britannica Sources used in this answer

How does Interpol help track smuggled works of art?

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kouros — Art fraud Kouros of uncertain provenance, formerly on display with the label “about 530 bc or modern forgery,” dolomitic marble; in the J. Paul Getty Museum, Villa Collection, Malibu, California.

Interpol facilitates the tracking of smuggled works of art by serving as an intergovernmental organization that coordinates cooperation between the criminal police forces of more than 180 member countries.1

While Interpol does not conduct arrests itself, it supports member nations in combating art theft and smuggling through several key mechanisms:

Information Sharing: Interpol maintains a unique database of international police intelligence. Through its I-24/7 telecommunications system, member countries can access and share critical data, including information related to stolen identification documents and criminal watch lists.1
Specialized Coordination: The organization focuses on specific categories of international crime, including art theft. It provides a platform for national police forces to communicate and collaborate on investigations that span global borders.1
Notices: Interpol issues various "coloured" notices to assist law enforcement. For example, it may issue notices to collect information on illegal activities or to warn agencies about criminals who may commit offenses in multiple countries.1

Ultimately, Interpol acts as a central hub for international police cooperation, enabling countries to track and suppress the illicit movement of cultural property across borders.12