A gang of 10 robbers used sledgehammers to break into the De Beers and Tiffany & Co stores in London’s Westfield shopping centre.
At least $1.6 million in jewellery was stolen in the night raids on Wednesday, May 5, The Australian reported last week
The robbery was over in just a few minutes, with the thieves fleeing the scene in stolen cars.
A high-speed police chase followed, however the gang managed to elude police.
After the robbery, Francois Delage, chief executive of De Beers, raised a few eyebrows by turning news of the theft into a sales pitch.
"This is an unfortunate incident, but is yet another reminder of the timeless allure of diamonds," he said.
London jewellers have experienced a spate of similar attacks over the past year, often involving gangs of thieves and heavy tools.
More than $6.7 million worth of goods have been taken from Watches of Switzerland, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana and Tiffany & Co.
The most notable robbery occurred in August last year, when more than $67 million worth of diamonds were stolen from Graff Diamonds - Britain’s biggest jewellery robbery of all time.
Three teenagers have been arrested in relation to the most recent robberies, although charges are yet to be laid.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Major Jewelers Hit by Crime Wave
Jewellery Brands Targeted for Large Heists
World-famous jewellery brands are being targeted by brazen thieves, with De Beers and Tiffany & Co the latest victims.