India artefacts stolen in a major museum heist have triggered a large investigation in Bristol. More than 600 high-value items disappeared during a break-in at the British Empire and Commonwealth collection on September 25. The burglary took place between 1 am and 2 am, and police say four white male suspects appear in CCTV footage from the site.
Avon and Somerset Police released the footage this week and appealed for public help. Officers want to identify the men seen entering the building. The stolen items include an ivory Buddha and a waist belt buckle once owned by an East India Company officer. Many pieces were historic donations and formed part of a collection that showcased complex colonial stories.
Detective Constable Dan Burgan said the theft caused a heavy cultural loss for the city. He explained that the collection helped people understand layered chapters of British history. His team has reviewed extensive CCTV material and completed forensic work. Officers have also met donors linked to the stolen pieces.
The delay in issuing the appeal remains unclear. Police now hope that public information will lead them to the suspects and help recover the artefacts.
