On December 2nd last year, 91 war medals were stolen from the Army Museum in Waiouru (just south of Lake Taupo). On Friday, they were handed to the police.

The war medals were won by soldiers during several wars, for brave actions. The most famous medal is the Victoria Cross which is given to a soldier who risked his life to save others. There were 9 VC (Victoria Cross) medals amongst the 91 medals stolen. New Zealand’s most famous soldier for bravery was the hero Charles Upham who won two VCs in World War II.

Police were worried that the medals would be sold overseas where they are worth a lot of money. After several weeks, some businessmen offered $300,000 for the return of the medals. On Friday, an Auckland lawyer handed all to medals to the police. He has worked hard, contacting many people, before the medals were put on his desk. The money was paid to someone but not to the lawyer. It is not clear who received the money. The police still do not know who stole the medals but they are checking them carefully for finger prints or other evidence. They are hopeful that they will find the thief or thieves.

Meanwhile, the Army Museum has increased its security so that this does not happen again. The medals are not yet back in the museum but as soon as the police have finished their checking, the medals will be returned.