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A gang armed with axes and crowbars have stolen a “large amount” of jewellery from a jewellers in Bolton.
Four offenders travelling on two stolen motorbikes parked up outside the store on Newport Street, Bolton, at 4:45pm on Friday 4 July.
Police said that one of the robbers waited outside with the bikes while the other three, who were also armed with axes and crowbars, entered the store.
The three men threatened staff before smashing glass cabinets and stealing jewellery.
One witness, a 66-year-old-man, attempted to knock the thieves off their bike as they tried to flee with a billboard, however, one of the bikes collided with the man and injured him. He was taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries but has since been discharged.
Other members of the public were able to take photographs of the thieves as they tried to flee the scene.
Police described the four offenders as wearing dark, waterproof clothing. One of the men was wearing yellow reflective hi-vis trousers, and they were all wearing motorbike helmets. One of the stolen motorbikes involved was a Suzuki Enduro.
Detective Sergeant Iqbal Ahmed from GMP’s Bolton division said: “These robbers have brazenly committed this robbery in broad daylight on a pedestrianised street, stealing a large amount of jewellery from the store.
“Passersby on Newport Street had no doubt as to what these offenders were up to and were obviously infuriated by what they could see unfolding before their eyes.
“I would like to thank all of these people for their bravery and for taking a stand against these criminals, however, I would also urge people to be conscious of their safety in incidents such as this and to not unnecessarily put themselves in danger. Thankfully the man knocked over by the bike was not seriously injured.”
Police said that the two bike were stolen for the specific purpose of being used in the crime, and have urged anyone with information about them to come forwards.
Anyone with information has been urged to call police at Scholey Street police station on 0161 856 5594 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
