Police in southeastern New Brunswick have opened an investigation after a bronze maple leaf was removed from a monument honouring three RCMP officers killed in the 2014 Moncton shootings.

The monument at The Honour Garden commemorates Constables Fabrice Gevaudan, David Ross and Douglas Larche, who were killed while serving their community.

RCMP Insp. Jonathan White described the memorial as a site of tremendous significance to officers and Moncton residents.

Police say the stolen bronze piece is more than a physical object because it forms part of a permanent tribute to the fallen officers. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the theft to come forward.

The memorial was created following the June 2014 shootings, which resulted in three officers being killed and two others wounded.

The investigation comes as police and communities continue to emphasize the importance of preserving memorials dedicated to Canadians who died in public service.