Hunt for ram-raid gang after terrifying Lord Street robbery
POLICE say a manhunt is continuing for ram-raiders who drove a Land Rover through the window of a Southport jewellers as terrified shoppers scattered for cover.
The robbers set fire to the vehicle before escaping on motorbikes with an undisclosed amount of stolen goods, including watches and jewellery.
Eyewitnesses described how the Land Rover Defender drove across the pavement outside David Search jewellers on Lord Street before smashing into the glass.
Police are now appealing for information as they continue to track the gang – and they hope that the timing of the raid, during the early evening rushhour, means motorists and cyclists who were nearby at the time may have vital dash-cam or helmet-cam footage of the build-up to the crime.
Detective Inspector Robbie Moss said: “At this early stage of the investigation we are looking for any information on the movements of a convoy of vehicles before, during and after this brazen robbery.
“We believe that the Land Rover Defender and three motorbikes came onto Lord Street from Bold Street before carrying out the offence, which would have been frightening to witness.
“If you were passing on foot or in a vehicle, and have any images, video or dashcam footage, get in touch as any small piece of evidence could be crucial to identifying those responsible and putting them before the courts.
“Likewise, if any individuals or businesses have been offered jewellery or watches in the Southport or surrounding areas and have any suspicions as to their origin, do the right thing and get in contact.
“This robbery hap- pened at a busy time on a main street, so we are also hopeful that in addition to CCTV and witnesses, we may also find people who saw the motorbikes making off down Lord Street and turning onto Duke Street after the offence. If you saw three bikes being ridden at speed, dumped or stored elsewhere, let us know.”
Fortunately, no-one was hurt during the robbery, which happened last Thursday at around 4.40pm.
One eyewitness, who was visiting the town centre at the time of the raid, told the Visiter that she saw the car smash through the window before around six people fled on bikes.
Fire engines from the Lord Street station just a few hundred yards away were quick to arrive at the scene and extinguish the blazing vehicle.
Merseyside Police confirmed that a number of items have been stolen from the store, including watches and a selection of jewellery.
Detectives are appealing for any witnesses and anyone offered watches or jewellery to get in touch with them.
Anyone with information, mobile phone footage or dash-cam footage is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 101 or the Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555 111.