8 arrested following spate of jewellery store robberies in West Yorkshire

Eight people have been arrested following a series of three jewellery store robberies across West Yorkshire.

Jewellery stores were targeted in Hebdon Bridge, Halifax town centre and in Brighouse over a seven day period from 24 June to 30 June.

Kingston Diamond Merchants, Duranczyk T&G and Neimantas Jewellers were all hit in the raids, which took place in broad daylight. During the Neimantas Jewellers raid bystanders made efforts to apprehend the suspects, even though they are believed to have had weapons.

West Yorkshire said that seven men – aged 38, 36, 29, 27, 27, 22 and 20 – and a 16-year old girl, all from Calderdale, were arrested and remain in police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Gibson, of Calderdale Police, said: “Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery following pre-planned policing operations across the district following three offences committed between Friday 24 and Thursday 30 June.

“Whilst there have been no physical injuries sustained during the incidents, clearly this has been very distressing for victims, and has caused understandable concern across the communities of Calderdale.”

He thanked members of the public and local business owners around the targeted premises for their “continued support” and cooperation, while also urging anyone who has not yet come forward with information to do so.

He added: “I would also like to thank those in Brighouse on Thursday who made efforts to apprehend the suspects even though they were believed to be in possession of weapons, showing great bravery and selflessness, and true community spirit in their actions.”

Anyone who has any information has been urged to contact Calderdale CID via 101, or through the independent, anonymous charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.