Historic World War II memorial shields and other valuable items have been reported stolen from the office of the Director General of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Parks Department at Frere Hall, officials confirmed on Saturday.
The theft came to light when the office reopened after the Ashura holidays. According to the first information report (FIR) filed by the deputy director of the Parks Department at Artillery Maidan Police Station, the office had been closed at 10 pm on July 4. When employees returned on July 7, they discovered the rear window had been broken, and multiple items were missing.
The stolen items include five rare World War II memorial shields, a DVD player, a speaker, and several water taps. These shields, considered important historical artefacts, had been preserved in the Parks Department office for years.
In response to the incident, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation has instructed the Parks Department to prepare an immediate and detailed report on the stolen items and the circumstances surrounding the theft.
Meanwhile, police have begun their investigation and are actively working to identify and apprehend those responsible. CCTV footage from the area is being carefully reviewed to trace any suspects linked to the break-in.
The theft has raised concerns about the security measures in place to protect heritage items and valuables kept in government offices. It also highlights the need for stricter protocols to safeguard such items, which hold cultural and historical significance.
Officials emphasised that all possible efforts are underway to recover the stolen shields and bring those involved to justice.
