Looters target Harlesden pawnbrokers
Masked gang carry out smash-and-grab on busy high street
Robbers have targeted a pawnbrokers shop in Harlesden this afternoon (Monday) in what is believed to be copycat looting sweeping across London.
According to a witness, a gang of around 40 masked people swooped on the shop in Harlesden High Street before smashing the glass and grabbing the jewellery on display at around 4.30pm.
The witness, who asked not be named, said: “It was madness. They just came from nowhere and smashed up the place.
“They were all wearing hats and hoodies.
“I really thought they are going to injure someone.”
The robbers, who are believed to be copying similar incidents in Tottenham, Enfield, Hackney and Brixton, may have left incriminating evidence behind according to the witness.
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He said: “Some of them cut themselves so there is blood all over the place. “It’s sheer madness.”
The wave of crime began on Saturday in Tottenham after a protest against the police shooting of 29-year-old Mark Duggan took place.
Detective Superintendent Steve Kershaw, from Brent Police confirmed a robbery had taken place but said it was too early to link it to the lootings across the city.
But, he added: “It is not your conventional robbery.”
Increased police patrols have been rolled out across the borough.
Did you witness the robbery?
Do you have any pictures of the scene, if so, call the newsteam on 020 7433 6228 or email times.series@archant.co.uk
