Bristol: In one of the biggest heritage thefts reported in recent years, more than 600 artefacts—many tied to India’s colonial history—were looted from a Bristol museum storage facility after a break-in during the early hours of September 25.
According to Avon and Somerset Police, a four-member gang forced entry into a building on Cumberland Road between 1 am and 2 am, escaping with hundreds of rare and culturally significant objects from the Bristol Museum’s British Empire and Commonwealth collection.
“These stolen items form part of a collection that helps us understand a complex chapter of British history,” said DC Dan Burgan, who is leading the investigation. He called the theft a “major cultural loss” for the city, noting that many pieces were donated over decades and hold deep historical value.
Police said the burglars made off with a vast assortment of objects—ranging from symbolic artefacts, carved figures and silver pieces to memorabilia linked to Britain’s rule across former colonies. Detectives have released CCTV images of four men who may have information about the crime.
More than 600 British Empire-era artefacts stolen from Bristol Museum https://t.co/IQiz5PGa7f pic.twitter.com/8mfmh7f89m
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) December 11, 2025
“So far, we’ve carried out extensive CCTV reviews, forensic examinations and are working closely with the victims,” Burgan said. He urged the public to come forward if they recognise the men or have spotted any of the stolen items on resale platforms. Information can be shared by calling 101 and quoting reference 5225269603.
The investigation continues, with police warning that the artefacts may already be circulating in the underground market for colonial-era collectibles.
