Man sentenced for robbing jewellers with axe and hammer gang

A ROBBER who threatened people in a jewellery shop has been sentenced to nine years in prison.

Alexandru Pavaluca, 22, of no fixed abode, admitted robbing Raj Jewels in Ealing Road, Wembley, and was sentenced at Harrow Crown Court on Tuesday.

Members of staff said a smartly dressed man walked into the shop on March 28, just before 12pm, and held the door open for nine other men - one of whom was Pavaluca - who were wearing balaclavas, scarves and hooded tops to obscure their faces.

They threatened the staff and used axes and hammers to smash glass cabinets and steal jewellery and a car was set on fire outside the shop.

The group ran out of the shop and police officers saw Pavaluca running away from the scene.

They managed to arrest him after he jumped over garden fences in an effort to get away.

Pavaluca was taken to Wembley police station and was subsequently charged with robbery.

The other men have not been traced.

DC Adrian Whitewick of Finchley Flying Squad said: "This was a terrifying experience for the staff at this jewellers, although no one was injured physically, a number of staff suffered shock.

"The investigation to identify the other men responsible is ongoing and I would appeal for anyone with information to contact the Flying Squad on 0208 358 1751, or if you don't want to give your name call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."