Police in Portsmouth are today releasing CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with a robbery which took place at Young George jewellers in Osbourne Road, Southsea.
The jewellers have also agreed to offer a reward of £1500, which will be paid for information that will lead to the recovery of the stolen property and the arrest and conviction of the thieves.
At 10.20am on Wednesday, January 7, a small blue Ford Fiesta pulled up outside if the jewellers, and the man in passenger seat got out.
He went to the front window of the shop, hit the glass window repeatedly with an axe, reached inside and took a number of items from the display, before getting back into the car, which drove away.
The driver of the car was also a man, thought to be aged around 40 years old.
The items stolen were padded display trays, which contained a number of rings and earrings, and the total value of the items taken is over £44,650.
The vehicle used in the incident was stolen, and was later recovered having been abandoned in Pelham Road, Portsmouth.
Detective Constable Jon Knox said, “These pictures are very clear and I am sure someone may recognise this man, and if you do I would urge you to call the police as soon as possible. The value of this jewellery was very high, and the fact that the shop owners are offering a reward emphasises how serious the incident was. If you are able to help in any way, please get in contact.”
Can you help?
Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Jon Knox at Fratton police station on 0845 045 45 45 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000.
