In a scene that seems more like a peculiar crime thriller than reality, Birmingham police are investigating a truly bizarre incident at a local business premises. A mysterious intruder has drilled a perfect hole directly through a framed portrait of the Crown Jewels, leaving behind nothing but the puzzling evidence of their trespass.
The discovery was made on Tuesday morning at a commercial property on Lichfield Road in the Aston area, sending West Midlands Police scrambling to understand the motive behind this strange act of vandalism.
The Peculiar Evidence
What makes this case particularly unusual isn't just the targeted nature of the damage, but the solitary clue left behind. Nestled at the scene was a small, plastic toy bat - placed with what appears to be deliberate intention.
The drilling was precise and calculated, creating a clean hole right through the centre of the historic artwork. The portrait, depicting one of Britain's most iconic symbols of monarchy and heritage, now bears permanent damage that has left both police and property owners utterly perplexed.
Police Appeal for Information
West Midlands Police have confirmed they are treating the incident as criminal damage and are actively seeking information from the public. The force has released details of the crime in hopes that someone might recognise the unusual modus operandi or have information about who might be responsible.
"This is certainly one of the more unusual cases we've encountered," a police spokesperson commented. "The specific targeting of this particular image, combined with the strange calling card left behind, makes this investigation particularly intriguing."
Community Bafflement
Local residents and business owners have expressed both concern and confusion about the incident. The nature of the vandalism suggests something more than random property damage, leading to speculation about possible symbolic meaning behind the act.
Why the Crown Jewels? Why the drilled hole? And most puzzling of all - what significance does the toy bat hold? These are the questions currently occupying both investigators and the local community as they seek to understand this mysterious occurrence.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact West Midlands Police, quoting the crime reference number.
