A man has been arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods after the theft of more than 600 artefacts from a museum collection.
The 41-year-old was detained and later released under investigation as part of inquiries into a burglary at a building housing items from Bristol Museum’s British Empire and Commonwealth collection on September 25.
Four men are believed to have gained entry to the property, in the Cumberland Road area, between 1am and 2am.
Avon and Somerset Police have described the artefacts taken as having a “significant cultural value”.
Some of the items include medals, badges and pins, jewellery, decorative items such as carved ivory, silver items and bronze figurines.
Natural history pieces, including geological specimens, are also believed to have been taken in the burglary.
A spokesman from Avon and Somerset Police said: “We continue to appeal for the public’s help to identify the four men pictured and have released two short video clips of the people we wish to speak to.”
Following the burglary, Bristol City Council released images of an elephant carved in ivory, an ivory statue of the Buddha, a ship lantern and an Emancipation token.
CCTV footage was released of four men by Avon and Somerset Police
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PA
A carved ivory elephant ornament with inlaid ebony eyes was stolen
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BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL
The British Empire and Commonwealth Collection at Bristol Archives documents the links between Britain and countries in the British Empire from the late 19th century to recent times.
The four men police are working to identify are described as white.
One was of medium to stocky build, wearing a white cap, black jacket, light-coloured trousers and black trainers.
The second man was of slim build, wearing a grey hooded jacket, black trousers and black trainers.
An Ivory Buddha was taken away
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BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL
An emancipation token was declared missing
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BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL
The third male wore a green cap, black jacket, light-coloured shorts and white trainers and appeared to walk with a slight limp in his right leg.
The fourth man was of large build, wearing a two-toned orange and navy/black puffed jacket, black trousers, and black and white trainers.
Anyone with information is asked to call Avon and Somerset Police on 101.
Those contacting should give the reference number 5225269603 to complete an online appeals form.
Officers want to speak to four men
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AVON AND SOMERSET POLICE
A warehouse owned by Bristol Council, which hosts the Museum’s archives.
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PA
Officer in the case, DC Dan Burgan, said: “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.
“So far, our enquiries have included significant CCTV enquiries as well as forensic investigations and speaking liaising with the victims.”