Section of Ancient Cannon Stolen from Kot Diji Fort, Alarming Heritage Experts

Thieves have stolen a significant portion of an ancient brass cannon at the Kot Diji archaeological site in Sindh, raising serious concerns about the protection of Pakistan’s historical heritage. According to initial reports, the culprits used a powerful cutter machine to slice off part of the centuries-old cannon, which is believed to date back to the Talpur era. After cutting the metal, the thieves fled the area without being detected, highlighting major gaps in site security.

Local residents and heritage activists were shocked when the damage came to light. They expressed deep frustration that such an important archaeological landmark—already vulnerable due to weathering and neglect—could be targeted so easily. Many pointed out that Kot Diji is not only a protected site but also a key part of Sindh’s cultural identity, making the theft a serious loss for the province and the country.

Activists are calling on the Sindh government and relevant departments to act urgently, both to recover the stolen cannon piece and to identify those responsible. They emphasize that the incident reflects a broader pattern of inadequate security at archaeological sites, where valuable artifacts remain at risk from thieves and smugglers.

Residents also stressed the need for improved surveillance, trained security staff, and regular inspections by heritage authorities. They argue that without strong protective measures, more historical objects could be lost, damaging the preservation of Pakistan’s ancient history.

The theft has renewed calls for prioritizing heritage protection, with many urging immediate reforms to prevent similar incidents and ensure that culturally significant sites like Kot Diji remain safeguarded for future generations.