A raider armed with a hammer smashed the panel of a York jewellers and grabbed jewellery today (Thursday).
But a suspected thief is in custody after quick work by an off duty police officer.
North Yorkshire Police called to a report of a burglary in progress at Ramsdens on Market Street, York at about 10.40am.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “A man was reported to have smashed a glass panel with a hammer and grabbed jewellery. However, as he made off, he was detained by an off-duty police officer.
“On-duty colleagues arrived a short time later, and he was arrested on suspicion of theft, criminal damage, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and burglary.”
Police cordoned off Ramsdens, which sells luxury watches, jewellery and does travel money and pawnbroking loans.
The smashed pane of glass is clearly visible.
When contacted by YorkMix, staff at the store said they couldn’t talk about what had happened.
Access to St Peter’s Lane and all the shops on Market Street is still available.
The 28-year-old suspect remains in custody at this time, and the scene of the incident is being forensically examined.
Anyone with information about the incident who hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference 12220178010.
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