Police hunt suspects after antique watches and weapon stolen in Exeter museum raid

Detectives have launched an urgent appeal for information after thieves broke into Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery (RAMM) in the early hours of Wednesday, 10th September, stealing a haul of valuable antiques.

Police were called at around 5am after two suspects forced entry to the Queen Street museum. Around 17 antique pocket watches were taken along with a flintlock blunderbuss attached to a bayonet.

Detective Inspector Paula Trevett, who is leading the investigation, said:
“Overnight two people have forced entry and taken valuable antique items from the museum. Our enquiries are ongoing, but I would encourage anyone with information that they think may be relevant, or if you have seen or heard of the whereabouts of the items taken, please get in touch. We are investigating a number of lines of enquiry at this time and the community will see officers carrying out enquiries in the area throughout the day.”

Images released by police show two individuals, both dressed in black and riding bicycles, who are believed to be connected to the burglary. Officers say the pair, thought to be men, may speak with Liverpudlian accents.

Exeter City Council, which runs the museum, expressed shock at the theft. Council Leader Philip Bialyk said:
“We are deeply saddened by this theft and are working with the police to investigate. We take our role as custodians of RAMM's collection very seriously. The gallery has been secured and a thorough review of security is underway. Our hope is that the items, which are of great importance to the people of Exeter and Devon, can be recovered. The museum will reopen to the public on Thursday, 11th September, although access to the affected gallery may be limited.”

A police scene guard remained in place at RAMM throughout Wednesday, with officers conducting enquiries in the surrounding area.

Anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is urged to contact police on 101 or via the Devon and Cornwall Police website, quoting log 64 of 10/09/25.