Trader failed to carry out basic identity checks despite item being snapped

A jeweller from Wembley who bought a gold chain from a suspected teenage robber 40 minutes after it was stolen has been given a caution.

The trader purchased the item from the 16-year-old boy without making identity checks despite the chain being snapped – a sign that it may have been involved in a chain snatch.

He was questioned by officers after they spotted the teenager and a 40-year-old man, who are both known to them, leaving the shop.

The chain was identified as being involved in a robbery in Harrow and further inquiries led officers to believe the jeweller was aware that it had been stolen.

Yesterday he was cautioned by officers and the 16-year-old was arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Sergeant Neil Tulloch from Wembley Central Safer Neighbourhoods Team said: “We will not tolerate such behaviour from jewellers or pawnbrokers in this area and will do all we can to clamp down and target any trader that feel they can get away with buying stolen goods. “

If you know of any premises that you believe are buying stolen goods please contact your local Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.