Patons Place Jewellers, located inside Craigieburn Central shopping centre, was targeted by a violent raid on Sunday morning, as thieves armed with metal poles shattered display cabinets and stole thousands of dollars’ worth of jewellery.
Store staff responded quickly, with one employee chasing the thieves out with a ring-sizing stick, though the robbers managed to flee in a waiting getaway vehicle.
The Incident and Police Response
Victoria Police were called to the scene shortly after the robbery, which occurred around 11 a.m. in the busy shopping centre. The raid caused widespread panic, with shoppers seeking refuge in nearby stores and other businesses closing their roller doors. According to Detective Sergeant Adam Foley, the brazenness of the attack was particularly concerning, as it disrupted shoppers and retailers alike:
“It’s pretty disgusting that they can walk into a busy shopping centre on a Sunday morning and cause panic and hate, havoc to people who are just going about their normal business,” he said.
Foley noted the bravery of a staff member who, despite being shaken, managed to chase the thieves out of the store with a ring-sizing stick.
Thieves Flee in Getaway Car
The robbers fled the scene in a dark-coloured Mazda CX5, which was waiting outside the shopping centre. Victoria Police have confirmed that the offenders, four individuals in total, were involved in the escape. Investigators are currently seeking any information about the suspects or the vehicle, and are urging witnesses to come forward. Those with details can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Implications for Jewellers and Industry Security
This robbery underscores the security risks faced in our industry, even in busy retail environments. While store staff can take preventative measures, the use of metal poles and the speed of the attack highlight the importance of robust security measures, such as reinforced cabinets, alarm systems and other systems such as smoke-machines aimed at preventing thieves from accessing jewellery, ideally frustrating them and meaning that they leave empty-handed.
