‘Unknown spray’ in jewellers raid
AN attempted robbery at a jewellers left one person hospitalised after an “unknown substance” was sprayed in the store.
Prestige Diamonds on Lord Street in Southport was targeted by thieves who entered the shop yesterday morning carrying a dark grey rucksack.
Staff became concerned about the behaviour of the two men and activated a fogging device – a security measure used to foil offenders.
Merseyside Police confirmed an “unknown substance” was then sprayed in the shop.
The area around the jewellery shop was cordoned off and an environmental protection van from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service was seen responding to the incident.
One member of staff was taken to hospital as a precaution after the substance was sprayed. They are not believed to be badly injured.
The men fled the shop through an alleyway in the direction of Stanley Street.
It is not believed at this stage that anything was stolen.
One of the men is described as white, aged between 40 and 50 years of age and of slim build.build He was carrying a dark grey rucksack.
Both men were wearing light coloured clothing.
Merseyside Police confirmed they were contacted at 9.35am and an investigation is under way to establish what the substance was, and CCTV and forensic enquiries are ongoing in the local area.
Detective Chief Inspector Gayle Rooney said: “I would appeal for anyone who was in the vicinity of Lord Street who may have seen anything suspicious to contact us.
“It would have been busy in the area at the time and members of the public may have seen the two men either close to the shop prior to the robbery or leaving the area afterwards.”
Merseyside Fire and Rescue confirmed three fire engines attended the scene at 9.53am.
North West Ambulance Service said: “We attended Lord Street at 9.40am. We have taken a patient to Southport District Hospital.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 3847 or the Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555111.