Armed robbers have carried out a daring raid at London's historic Hatton Garden jewellery district. The attack happened in broad daylight, shocking staff and shoppers alike. Three men, posing as customers, entered Danesh International Jewellers before threatening staff and stealing valuables.
Hatton Gardenis one of London's most famous jewellery hubs. The area is home to hundreds of jewellers and diamond traders. Violent raids of this kind are extremely rare here.
The raid took place shortly before 5.15pm last Thursday. The three masked men were armed with knives. One staff member, in his 70s, was assaulted during the attack.
Footage shared online shows the suspects smashing display cases. They made off with high‑value watches and a ring before fleeing on foot. Police confirmed the men are still at large.
The Metropolitan Police responded swiftly, arriving at the scene within eight minutes. Detectives from the Flying Squad are now leading the investigation.
Patrols in the area have been increased. Police have appealed for anyone with information or footage to come forward. No arrests have been made so far.
This is one of the first daylight smash-and-grab raids reported in Hatton Garden in recent years. Other parts of London, including Knightsbridge, Richmond, and Shepherd's Bush, have seen similar jewellery store attacks in recent weeks.
Thieves in these raids often use hammers and other tools to break windows and display cases. Investigations into those incidents are still ongoing.
Hatton Garden has a long history in the jewellery trade. It was the site of the famous2015 Hatton Garden safe deposit burglary, when millions of pounds worth of goods were stolen. Despite security measures, the area remains vulnerable to bold criminal acts.
Staff and shop owners were left shaken by the raid. Many local jewellers say the attack has caused concern for both staff and customers.
Source: International Business Times UK
