Police in Melbourne are appealing for help as part of their investigation of a jewellery theft that resulted in the loss of approximately $100,000 worth of stock. The incident, which occurred on 27 January 2023, involved three suspects whose actions were captured on CCTV footage.
Timeline of the Incident
The burglary began around 4am when a man reportedly used a jemmy bar to force entry into a jewellery store on Manchester Lane. He was accompanied by a woman, while another man acted as a lookout. Once inside, the pair took items from the store before leaving the area at approximately 6.30am.
The man and woman are alleged to have returned to the store at 9am, re-entering to steal more jewellery. Among the items taken were diamond rings, antique pendants, and gold wedding bands. This second entry lasted about 20 minutes before they fled.
Stolen Items
The stolen items, valued at $100,000, included high-ticket pieces such as diamond rings, antique pendants, and gold wedding bands. This suggests the suspects targeted smaller, high-value items that could be easily transported.
Police Investigation
Detectives have released CCTV footage of two men and a woman suspected of involvement in the theft. Authorities are asking for public assistance in identifying these individuals.
Jewellers who have any information relevant to the case are encouraged to contact local authorities or the Melbourne Police Department.
Security Considerations for Jewellers
This incident highlights the importance of implementing strong security measures, particularly for retailers in busy urban locations like Melbourne’s CBD. Measures such as reinforced locks, high-quality CCTV systems, and effective alarm protocols can help deter organised thefts of this nature.
Additionally, jewellers are advised to review their insurance policies to ensure they reflect the current value of their stock. Adequate insurance coverage can mitigate the financial impact of potential thefts.
