Major Burglary at Bristol Museum Warehouse Sees 600 Artefacts Stolen
A significant burglary at a Bristol Museum warehouse has resulted in the theft of more than 600 high-value artefacts, with police now actively investigating the incident and appealing for public assistance. The burglary occurred in the early hours of September 25, when four hooded men entered the museum's storehouse in the Cumberland Road area of Bristol between 1am and 2am.
Arrest Made and Investigation Ongoing
A 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods in connection with the warehouse burglary. However, he was later released under investigation as police continue their enquiries. Authorities have emphasised that the investigation remains active and are urging members of the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the perpetrators.
Targeted Theft of Historic Collection
The burglars specifically targeted Bristol Museum's British Empire and Commonwealth collection, which is described as a unique set of artefacts documenting the links between Britain and countries in the former British Empire from the late 19th century to recent times. Among the stolen items are jewellery, carved ivory ornaments, medals, badges, pins, silver relics, and bronze figurines that once belonged to Britons posted in distant colonies.
Natural history pieces, including geological specimens, are also believed to have been taken during the raid. The stolen artefacts were stored at the B Bond Warehouse, which is operated by Bristol Archives and Bristol Museums, having previously been held at the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum in the city until 2012.
Cultural Significance and Public Appeal
Detective Constable Dan Burgan stated: '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.'
Philip Walker, head of culture and creative industries at Bristol City Council, expressed deep sadness over the theft, noting: '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.'
CCTV Images Released of Suspects
Avon and Somerset Police have released CCTV footage and images of four men they wish to identify in connection with the burglary. The descriptions provided by police are as follows:
- The first man is of medium to stocky build, wearing a white cap, black jacket, light-coloured trousers, and black trainers.
- The second suspect is of slim build, wearing a grey hooded jacket, black trousers, and black trainers.
- The third male wore a green cap, black jacket, light-coloured shorts, and white trainers, appearing to walk with a slight limp in his right leg.
- The fourth man is of large build, wearing a two-toned orange and navy/black puffed jacket, black trousers, and black and white trainers.
Police have also released two short video clips of the individuals they wish to speak to and continue to appeal for information from the public.
Specific Items Stolen
Bristol City Council has shared photographs of some of the stolen items to aid in their recovery. These include:
- An elephant ornament carved in ivory with inlaid ebony eyes.
- An ivory Buddhist model on a stone base.
- A ship lantern.
- An Emancipation token from 19th Century America.
- An East India Company Officer's waist belt plate mount.
Historical Importance and Security Measures
Simon Potter, professor of modern history at the University of Bristol, commented on the significance of the collection: 'It's a very shocking event, this is a collection of national and international significance. It includes irreplaceable historical material from all around the world. It was collected as a unique collection, 20 or 30 years ago, and it contains material from lots of different public institutions and private individuals. It's something quite unique, and it's something that's of huge value if you want to understand the history of the British Empire, British colonialism, the history of many African and Asian countries in the Pacific.'
In response to the burglary, security at the facility has been tightened, and members of the museum community have been informed about the incident. The council has expressed gratitude for the support of Avon and Somerset Police and continues to work closely with officers to investigate the crime, apprehend the offenders, and recover the stolen artefacts.
How to Help
Anyone with information about the burglary or the whereabouts of the stolen artefacts is asked to contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101, providing the reference number 5225269603. Alternatively, information can be submitted through the online appeals form available on the police website.
