Hundreds of items taken in 'high-value' museum raid

According to investigators, more than 600 works of "enduring cultural importance" have been stolen from the Bristol Museum's archives in a "high-value" raid.

Avon and Somerset Police stated that four men gained access to a property in the city's Cumberland Basin district in the early hours of 25 September. CCTV captured four men in the area, and detectives are now attempting to locate them in connection with the theft of items from the museum's British Empire and Commonwealth Collection.

"The theft of so many items of enduring cultural significance is a significant loss for the city," said Detective Constable Dan Burgan.

"These items, many of which were donations, are part of a collection that provides insight into a multi-layered period of British history, and we are hoping that members of the public will help us bring those responsible to justice."

He added: "Our inquiries so far have included extensive CCTV trawls, forensic examinations, and speaking with the victims."

Police are keen to speak to anyone who recognises the men in the CCTV footage or who may have noticed potentially stolen items being sold online.

All four suspects are believed to be white men:

The first is described as having a medium to stocky build and was wearing a white cap, black jacket, light-coloured trousers, and black trainers.
The second is described as having a slim build and was wearing a grey hooded jacket, black trousers, and black trainers.
The third was wearing a green cap, black jacket, light-coloured shorts, and white trainers. Police noted that he appeared to walk with a slight limp in his right leg.
The fourth is described as having a large build and was wearing a two-tone orange and navy (or black) puffer jacket, black trousers, and black and white trainers.