More than 600 artefacts have been stolen from Bristol Museum’s British Empire collection in a shocking early hours raid.
The haul of precious items was taken between 1am and 2am on September 25 after four men gained entry to a building in the Cumberland Road area, Avon & Somerset Police said.
The building housed artefacts from the Bristol Museum’s British Empire and Commonwealth collection.
Police have now released CCTV images of four people officers want to speak to after over 600 items of “various descriptions” were taken.
Detective Constable 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 with the victims.”
The force is looking to speak to four men, who are all described as white.
Police said many of the artefacts taken had been donated
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One is of medium to stocky build, wearing a white cap, black jacket, light-coloured trousers and black trainers.
The second man is described as being 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 and appeared to walk with a slight limp in his right leg.
The fourth man was said to be of a large build, wearing a two-toned orange and navy/black puffed jacket, black trousers, and black and white trainers.
The museum’s “unique” British Empire and Commonwealth collection features items which document the links between Britain and countries in the British Empire from the late 19th century to recent times, according to its website.
This includes photographs, papers and souvenirs of Britons who lived and worked in the colonies at the time.
Anyone with information about the alleged burglary have been urged to contact police.