Gun terror as jewel thieves strike (From Daily Echo)

Gun terror as jewel thieves strike

1:41pm Monday 6th July 2009 in

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THIS is the terrifying moment that a jeweller suddenly became the target of a gun-toting robber.

She found herself staring down the barrel of a gun in a scene which could have come straight out of a gangster movie.

But instead this was a Friday afternoon in the normally sedate Cowes High Street on the Isle of Wight.

The robbers threatened the worker from world-famous yachting jeweller Benzie with a gun as she stood in the doorway.

No shots were fired.

These amazing images were captured by day trippers just passing through the yachting mecca.

The gang fled with 15 watches after using sledge hammers to smash through the front window while shoppers watched on.

The drama sparked a major air and land search including checks with Solent ferry operators, but last night the gang were still at large and the Island was on full alert as major searches were underway to find where they are hiding.

The silver Land Rover Freelander they used as a getaway vehicle was subsequently recovered dumped near Northwood House. It had been stolen from Gurnard a day earlier.

A saloon vehicle they are then known to have escaped in is still missing. It was initially reported to have been a Volkswagen, and is possibly grey, silver or light green in colour, with damage to its rear, nearside wheel arch, and a registration plate beginning with the letter W.

Police are appealing to hotels, guest houses and campsites to report suspicious activity or guests but not to approach them.

Det Insp Nick Heelan said: “Extra officers and resources are committed to tracking and arresting the suspects as quickly as possible.

“I would advise anyone who sees the suspects not to approach them directly, and call police.”

Anyone offered quality second hand jewellery is also asked to contact police.

Officers are visiting other shops on the Island known to stock high-value goods to check on security levels.

Two female German tourists, in their 20s, on a day trip, were among several eyewitnesses who saw the raid, and caught it on camera.