Alexandru Pavaluca and his accomplices targeted Raj Jewels in Ealing Road

A man who took part in an armed robbery where a gang smashed their way through a jewellers shop in Wembley has been jailed for nine years today (Tuesday).

Alexandru Pavaluca, 22, and his accomplices set fire to a car outside Raj Jewels in Ealing Road, as a distration before storming their way into the store on March 28 this year.

Terrified staff, who there threatened by the gang, were forced to watch in horror as up to nine robbers brandishing axes and hammers smash into glass cabinets where they grabbed thousands of pounds worth of Asian jewellery on display.

The gang, who were wearing balaclavas and scarves to shield their identity, fled across the road towards Union Road after the raid which took place at 11.45am.

Officers spotted Pavaluca fleeing from the scene and despite him jumping over a number of garden fences to get away he was caught and arrested.

Last week at Harrow Crown Court he admitted robbery and was sentenced today.

DC Adrian Whitewick, from Finchley Flying Squad, said: “This was a terrifying experience for the staff at this jewellers, although no one was injured physically, a number of staff suffered shock.”

Appealing for information about Pavaluca’s accomplices, he added: “The investigation to identify the other men responsible is ongoing and I would appeal for anyone with information to contact the Flying Squad.”

Anyone with information should call DC Whitewick on 0208 358 1751 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.