Brazen thieves steal more than 1,000 items from museum in 'opportunistic' heist

Details of the incident were revealed on Thursday by the museum's director in order to raise awareness as authorities think items may turn up at flea markets, pawn shops and antique stores.

Lori Fogarty said: "The theft that occurred represents a brazen act that robs the public of our state's cultural heritage.

"They're not just a loss to the museum. They're a loss to the public, to our community and we're hoping our community can help us bring them home."

She revealed that authorities believe the crime to be opportunistic in nature, saying: "We think the thieves found a way to enter the building, and they grabbed what they could easily find and snatch and get out of the building with."

Among the pieces taken was a neckpiece made by the late artist Florence Renikoff, scrimshaw walrus tasks and Native American baskets.

However, the majority of what was stolen consisted of historical memorabilia from the 20th century including campaign pins and athletic awards.

Experts believe some of the stolen items may have already been sold.

Retired police captain John Romero told the Los Angeles Times that he believes authorities will be looking at resale platforms such as Craigslist and Ebay.

He added that specialist networks for buying and selling historic and collectable goods will likely also be being monitored.

He said: "These people are interested in fast cash, not the full appraisal value. They need to get rid of it quickly."

Oakland Police Department are understood to be working alongside a specialist FBI art crime unit to track down the stolen pieces.

Ms Logarty added: "The Museum takes its responsibility to steward California's history and cultural legacy with the utmost seriousness and remains committed to recovering the stolen items and ensuring their continued care for future generations."

The Museum's goal is to document the art, history and natural environment of the Golden State.

A statement from the Museum said: "OMCA has received particular concern from the community regarding the stolen Native American baskets.

"The Museum works in close collaboration with Indigenous communities and Tribes from across California and is in direct communication with the culturally affiliated Tribe connected to these stolen items."