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More than 600 objects of “cultural significance” have been stolen from Bristol Museum’s collection of 19th-century artefacts, police have said.
Avon and Somerset Police It was said that on September 25, between 1 am and 2 am, four people entered the building to steal high-value items.
The force, which released CCTV images of four people whom officers want to speak to, said more than 600 artefacts of “various descriptions” were taken by the criminals.
The officer in charge of the case, DC Dan Bergen, said: “The theft of so many objects holding significant cultural value is a significant loss to the city.
“These objects, many of which were donations, are part of a collection that provides insight into a multilayered part of British history, and we are hoping that members of the public can help us bring those responsible to justice.
“So far, our inquiries have included significant CCTV inquiries as well as forensic investigations and interacting with the victims.
“If you recognize the men pictured or have seen any possible items being sold online, please call us on 101 and quote reference 5225269603.”
The British Empire and Commonwealth collection includes thousands of historical objects, photographs and films, which Bristol Museum says documents “the relationship between Britain and the countries of the British Empire from the late 19th century to recent times”.
Bristol City Council released images of an elephant carved in ivory, an ivory statue of the Buddha, a ship lantern and an emancipation token.
Philip Walker, head of culture and creative industries at the council, said: “We are deeply saddened by the theft of these artefacts which are part of the wider British Empire and Commonwealth collection.
“These artefacts were part of a collection that documents the relationship between Britain and the countries that were formerly part of the British Empire from the late 18th to the early 20th centuries.
“This collection holds cultural significance for many countries and provides an invaluable record and insight into the lives of those involved in and influenced by the British Empire.
“We are grateful for the support of Avon and Somerset Police and will continue to work closely with officers to investigate this crime and apprehend the culprits and recover these artefacts.
“Security at the facility has been tightened and members of our museum community have been informed.”
The four men depicted are described as white.
One was of medium to muscular build, wearing a white cap, black jacket, light colored trousers and black trainers.
The other man was of slim build, wearing a gray hooded jacket, black trousers and black trainers.
The third man wore a green hat, black jacket, light-coloured shorts and white trainers and appeared to walk with a slight limp on his right leg.
Finally, the fourth man was of larger build, wearing a two-tone orange and navy/black puffy jacket, black trousers and black and white trainers.