More than 600 artefacts from Bristol Museum’s British Empire and Commonwealth collection have been stolen in a “high-value burglary”, police have said.
Detectives with Avon and Somerset police said they wanted to speak to four men in connection with the incident and released CCTV images of the group.
The items were taken from the museum’s offsite storage facility in Cumberland Road between 1am and 2am on 25 September.
Among the items taken are:
Militaria including medals, badges and pins.
Jewellery including necklaces, bangles and rings.
Decorative art items including carved ivory, silver items and bronze figurines.
Natural history pieces including geological specimens.
The head of culture and creative industries at Bristol city council, Philip Walker, said: “We’re deeply saddened by the theft of these artefacts which make up the extensive British Empire and Commonwealth collection.
“These artefacts were part of a collection that documents the links between Britain and countries formerly part of the British empire from the late 18th century to the late 20th century.
“The collection is of cultural significance to many countries and provides an invaluable record and insight into the lives of those involved in and affected by the British empire.”
Security at the facility had been tightened, he said.
Police are seeking:
A white male of medium to stocky build who was wearing a white cap, black jacket, light-coloured trousers and black trainers.
A white male of slim build who was wearing a grey hooded jacket, black trousers and black trainers.
A white male who was wearing a green cap, black jacket, light-coloured shorts and white trainers. He appears to walk with a slight limp in his right leg.
A white male of large build who was wearing a two-toned orange and navy/black puffed jacket, black trousers and black and white trainers.
DC Dan Burgan, the officer in charge of the case, said: “The theft of many items which carry a significant cultural value is a significant loss for the city.
“These items, many of which were donations, form part of a collection that provides insight into a multi-layered part of British history, and we are hoping that members of the public can help us to bring those responsible to justice.”
The force has asked anyone who recognises the men or have seen any of the possible items being sold online to call 101.
A haul of antique pocket watches dating from the late 18th century and an early 19th-century blunderbuss were also stolen from the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery in Exeter in September.
Two suspects are believed to have forced entry into the museum on Queen Street and stolen 17 watches and the gun, which is likely to have been used to defend mail coaches.
