Victoria police investigating theft of 17th century artifacts from cathedral

VANCOUVER – Victoria police are asking for help from the public to locate some historical artifacts that were stolen from a local cathedral on Saturday night.

Constable Mike Russell says investigators are trying to track down those involved with the late-night theft of what are described as priceless artifacts from Christ Church Cathedral just before 10 p.m.

He says several items dating back to the 17th century were taken, including gold and silver chalices, Canadian coins, a small communion plate and a mote spoon.

Russell says cathedral representatives have told him the items have little monetary value and they hope to have the items returned.

He says a forensic identification team has also process the scene to gather evidence.

Russell says police have no suspects at this time and are asking anyone who may have seen suspicious activity around the church to call Victoria police’s non-emergency line or Crime Stoppers.