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Suspects: a CCTV image issued by police |
Fake faces of £40m gem raiders
Bracelets, necklaces and rings among items stolen from Graff Diamonds
DETECTIVES revealed last night (Thursday) that the two robbers who fired shots into the air outside a Mayfair jewellery store and drove off with a £40million haul were wearing latex masks and make-up.
The fake faces were fitted by a theatrical expert working in the West End who thought they were preparing for a pop video shoot, police said.
Detectives also released details of two of the getaway cars – a silver Mercedes B class with the registration LV06HFA and a blue Volkswagon Sharam, registration RA07XEV – that have not been found.
Police confirmed they had arrested a 50-year-old man in Ilford following a swoop on a three properties. He was later bailed.
Jewel-encrusted rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches were stolen from Graff Diamonds in New Bond Street on August 6. Two smartly dressed men walked through the shop’s airlock security door at 4.40pm and threatened staff with handguns. The thieves made their getaway in a blue BMW.
Detective Chief Inspector Pam Mace from the Flying Squad said: “This was a well-planned robbery with a number of vehicles used to help the robbers escape. These men are extremely dangerous and fired at least two shots in busy London streets as they made their getaway.
“I would urge anyone who recognises them, knows the whereabouts of the jewellery or has any other information to contact us.”
The blue BMW drove down Old Bond Street, turned right into Stafford Street and then right into Dover Street. The driver switched to a silver Mercedes which turned left into Hay Hill and then entered Berkeley Square, heading towards Farm Street where the robbers switched cars again.
Detectives from the Flying Squad in Barnes describe one of the robbers as about 30 years old, of slim build, dark hair with a well-combed side parting and light stubble on his face. He was wearing a grey suit, white shirt and tie.
The other man is in his 30s, 6ft tall, with very short hair and wore a grey suit, white shirt and tie. It is believed both men spoke with London accents.
Anyone with information about is asked to contact the Flying Squad on 020 8247 4804 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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