Karachi:
Precious memorial shields dating back to World War II have been reported stolen from Frere Hall, one of Karachi’s most iconic heritage sites. The theft, which came to light earlier this month, has sparked concerns over the security of historical artefacts preserved in the city.
The incident was first discovered on July 7 when Frere Hall reopened after the Ashura holidays. Staff members noticed a window in the office of the Director General of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) had been broken. A thorough check revealed that five commemorative shields, a DVD player, a speaker, and copper cables were missing from the premises.
According to an initial police report filed after the discovery, investigations quickly identified one individual as a key suspect. Police are also questioning the contractor responsible for overseeing items within the premises.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Asad Raza, who is supervising the investigation, told local media that efforts are in full swing to recover the stolen shields. “We are conducting raids to arrest the suspect and are hopeful of a breakthrough very soon,” DIG Raza said. Authorities are also examining CCTV footage and checking scrap markets in the city for any trace of the missing artefacts.
The recent burglary, although alarming, is not entirely unexpected. Prior to the incident, local authorities had warned KMC officials that Frere Hall was becoming increasingly vulnerable to thefts and criminal activities. According to a letter cited by Dawn News, Frere Hall, once a peaceful public space, has now become a hotspot for unlawful activities due to lack of proper security and organised parking.
Past incidents
This is not the first time Frere Hall has witnessed theft. In 2017, paintings by Sindhi artist Seffy Soomro went missing during an exhibition held at the venue. The artist eventually recovered his artwork last year when he recognised his paintings being used as props in the popular television drama Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum.
Frere Hall: A brief history
Built in 1865 during British colonial rule, Frere Hall was originally designed as Karachi’s town hall by architect Henry Saint Clair Wilkins. It was named after Sir Henry Bartle Edward Frere, a prominent colonial administrator of his time. Today, Frere Hall serves as a public library and cultural space, housing the Liaquat National Library and hosting art exhibitions, cultural events, and public gatherings. It remains a testament to Karachi’s colonial architecture and continues to attract historians, artists, and tourists alike.
Despite its historical significance, recent incidents have underscored the urgent need for better protection and preservation of Karachi’s heritage sites before more irreplaceable artefacts are lost.
