You are right, half knowledge is a dangerous thing, take your own advice.
They were not "caught" doing anything. They were discovered worshipping ancient ways,
This is the
Iranian COW god,
Iran: Holy Cow Statue Discovered in Mazandaran
The discovery of these sculptures indicates that the people of the region worshiped cows 3000 years ago.
Mazandaran is one of the most ancient provinces in Iran. Archaeological excavations indicate that the province has been inhabited by human beings since 400,000 years ago until the present time, and that around 5000 years ago, urbanization flourished in the area. Gohar Tepe is a proof to this claim.
"Some cow statues have been discovered in the archaeological excavations of Gohar Tepe, one of which is left almost intact. These sculptures which are in shape of rhytons were being used in religious ceremonies," says Ali Mahforouzi, head of the excavation team of Gohar Tepe, Mazandaran, who is undertaking the forth season of excavations in the historical site.
COW bed of the King,