In a brazen daylight robbery, two men armed with a sledgehammer targeted a long-standing family jewellers in Richmond, west London, leaving the local community shaken and police scrambling for leads.
Violent Break-In at Gregory & Co
The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 am on Saturday, when the suspects, wearing balaclavas to conceal their identities, approached Gregory & Co, a West End jewellery store with over 45 years of history in the area. Using a sledgehammer, they forcefully smashed the front window, creating a loud commotion that drew attention from nearby residents and businesses.
Swift Theft and Escape
After breaching the storefront, the pair hastily grabbed as much jewellery as possible from the display window, stuffing their haul into a bag. They then fled the scene on foot, disappearing into the surrounding streets before police could arrive. Authorities have since recovered a vehicle believed to have been used in connection with the robbery, which is now undergoing forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Superintendent Craig Knight, who oversees neighbourhood policing in Richmond for the Metropolitan Police, has issued a public appeal for witnesses. He emphasised the urgency of the case, stating, "Officers are working at pace to identify and locate the men who carried out this robbery. We realise incidents of this nature can have a real impact on the local community, especially businesses and those who live in the area." He reassured residents that the police are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry and are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Community and Business Impact
The robbery has deeply affected the owners and staff of Gregory & Co, a cherished independent jewellers known for its long-standing presence in Richmond. A spokesperson for the store described the event as "deeply upsetting for us all" and confirmed they are fully cooperating with police efforts. Despite the trauma, the business has been heartened by an outpouring of support from the public, with the spokesperson adding, "The public response to this incident has been overwhelming, and we are grateful for the support and kindness we've received. We are reassured that overall, good outweighs the bad as we look forward to reopening and getting back to normal soon."
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns
As the suspects remain at large, local authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in the investigation. This incident highlights broader concerns about crime targeting small businesses in urban areas, prompting discussions on community safety and police responsiveness. The Met Police have increased patrols in the vicinity to reassure residents and prevent further incidents.
In summary, this violent robbery has not only caused significant distress to a beloved local business but also raised alarms about security in the West End. With police actively investigating and the community rallying behind Gregory & Co, efforts are focused on apprehending the culprits and restoring a sense of normalcy to Richmond.
