A major theft occurred at Frere Hall in Karachi during the Ashura holidays, where unknown individuals broke into the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s DG Parks office and stole World War-era shields and other heritage items. The incident took place at the historic Frere Hall building located on Fatima Jinnah Road in Civil Lines.
According to the FIR filed by Deputy Director Zohaib Gul at Artillery Maidan Police Station, the office was closed for Muharram holidays on July 4 and reopened on July 7. Upon reopening, the rear window of the office was found broken, and multiple items were discovered missing.
Stolen items include five rare World War memorial shields, a heritage plaque, copper wiring, a DVD player, speaker, cables, and a printer. These items were part of the Parks and Horticulture Department’s preserved historical collection.
KMC officials have requested an internal report from the Parks Department and are working to obtain CCTV footage from the premises. Initial investigations suggest the theft was carried out during the official holiday period, taking advantage of the closed premises and low security presence.
Frere Hall Karachi, a colonial-era landmark and public space, is considered one of the city’s most prominent cultural sites. The theft has raised concerns about the protection of public heritage and government office security.
The case remains under investigation, with no arrests or suspects identified so far. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and internal protocols.
