Heritage Theft – Massive Search Continues After Historic Narwar Fort Cannon Vanishes
Heritage Theft –A coordinated search operation involving police teams from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh is continuing after the theft of a centuries-old cannon from Narwar Fort triggered a major investigation. Authorities are pursuing multiple leads as they attempt to recover the missing heritage artefact and identify those responsible for the crime.
Search Operation Extends Into Rajasthan
Police teams carried out an extensive search in Rajasthan’s Karauli district after intelligence suggested that the stolen cannon may have been moved to a village near Hindaun. Acting on information provided by investigators from Madhya Pradesh, officials searched several locations in Gavda Meena village under the jurisdiction of Hindaun Sadar police station.
Heavy earthmoving equipment, including JCB machines, was used to excavate suspected sites, while a specialised metal detector unit from Bharatpur assisted in the operation. More than 50 police personnel, supported by local administrative officials, took part in the search. Excavation continued for several hours across multiple locations, but the missing cannon was not recovered.
Historic Artefact Believed Targeted by Smuggling Network
Investigators believe the cannon, estimated to weigh around 3,500 kilograms, was stolen from Narwar Fort in Shivpuri district on the night of July 15. Officials estimate that the rare artefact could fetch between Rs 3 crore and Rs 5 crore in the illegal international antiques market.
Police suspect that an organised antique trafficking network may have played a role in the theft. Investigators are examining whether the cannon was transported across state borders shortly after it was removed from the historic fort.
Theft Planned With Considerable Preparation
According to the investigation, the operation appeared to have been carefully organised. Police believe the accused first wrapped the heavy cannon in mattresses to minimise damage during transportation. It was then reportedly lowered from the fort using an iron trolley equipped with bearings before being loaded onto a transport vehicle.
Evidence collected at the site, including tyre tracks from heavy vehicles and drag marks, has strengthened the theory that specialised equipment was used to remove the massive object. Officials are now working to identify the vehicle involved and establish the complete route used by the suspects.
Security Lapses Come Under Scrutiny
The theft has also raised serious concerns over security arrangements at Narwar Fort. Investigators found that although six security guards were assigned to protect the monument, the two guards responsible for night duty were reportedly absent when the incident took place.
During questioning, one guard stated that he had returned home because essential facilities, including lighting and accommodation, were unavailable at the fort. Another guard reportedly admitted that the earlier account claiming an armed robbery had been fabricated. Authorities are examining whether negligence contributed to the successful execution of the theft.
Heritage Experts Assist Investigation
The stolen cannon was among 14 historic cannons displayed in the open courtyard of Narwar Fort, a site associated with the Scindia princely state. Following the theft, only 13 of these rare weapons remain at the monument.
Made from brass, bronze, copper and Ashtadhatu, the cannons carry inscriptions in both Persian and Devanagari, adding to their historical and cultural significance. A joint team from the Madhya Pradesh State Archaeology Department and the police inspected the crime scene and collected several pieces of evidence, including mattresses, quilts, iron pipes and vehicle marks believed to be linked to the theft.
Deputy Director of the State Archaeology Department Tarun Kumar Mahobia described the incident as a matter of serious concern, saying both the theft and the security arrangements at the fort are being closely examined. Narwar SHO Vinay Yadav confirmed that a case has been registered against unidentified suspects and said efforts remain focused on recovering the cannon and identifying everyone involved in the operation.