Police in Britain are hunting four men suspected of stealing more than 600 artifacts from Bristol Museum's archive during a Sept. 25 break-in at the Cumberland Basin. Stolen items include military badges linked to the British East India Company, jewelry, carved figurines and natural-history specimens. Investigators have released CCTV images and asked the public to call 101 with reference 5225269603 or contact Crimestoppers. Officials say many donated pieces form an important historical record spanning the late 18th to late 20th centuries.
UK Police Seek Four After Major Heist at Bristol Museum Archive — Over 600 Artifacts Missing
British police are searching for four men after more than 600 culturally significant artifacts were stolen from the archive of Bristol Museum in a large-scale burglary, authorities said.
The break-in occurred at the Cumberland Basin archive in the early hours of Sept. 25. Investigators say the thieves removed a wide range of objects, including military memorabilia, jewelry, natural-history specimens and carved figurines made from materials such as ivory, bronze and silver.
What Was Stolen
Police and museum staff report that the haul included military badges and pins connected to the historic British East India Company, necklaces, bangles, rings, carved figurines, decorative items, geological specimens and other natural-history objects. Many of the pieces were donations and form part of a collection documenting Britain’s links with countries of the former British Empire from the late 18th century through the late 20th century.
Police Appeal and Investigation
“The theft of many items which carry a significant cultural value is a significant loss for the city,” Detective Dan Burgan told the BBC and The Guardian.
Avon and Somerset Police released CCTV stills of four men seen in the area following the theft and asked the public for help identifying them. Officials said they delayed a public announcement while conducting initial inquiries and allowing archive staff time to complete an audit of the collection.
How to Help
If you have information, contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101 and quote reference 5225269603, or contact Crimestoppers. Police have also asked people to report if they see any of the stolen items being offered for sale online.
Suspect Descriptions
- All four suspects are believed to be white.
- Suspect 1: Medium to stocky build, wearing a white hat, black jacket, light-coloured trousers and black trainers.
- Suspect 2: Slim build, grey hooded jacket, black trousers and trainers.
- Suspect 3: Green hat, black jacket, light-coloured shorts, white trainers; observed with a slight limp in the right leg.
- Suspect 4: Large build, two-toned orange and navy (or black) puffy jacket with black trousers.
Authorities note the collection has cultural significance for many countries and provides important historical context about lives affected by the British Empire. The theft follows other high-profile museum incidents internationally, and police continue to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.
