Dartford jeweller can't believe 'mystery' armed raid went unnoticed

Bradley’s in Hythe Street was targeted by burglars who ripped out two shutters and smashed a glass panel in the door to make off with thousands of pounds worth of rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings.

Two CCTV cameras on the street were apparently pointing the wrong way while neither a lady living above the shop or anyone working at the All Night Cars cab stand nearby saw or heard anything.

Store owner Mr Bradley, who did not want to give his first name, is angry he had to close his shop for a day at peak Christmas trading time following the raid between 1.45am and 1.55am on December 16.

The 60-year-old said: "It’s all a mystery. There are some pretty sad people out there and unfortunately they don’t abide by law or morals."

Bradleys in Hythe Street. 

The shutters and broken door panel cost £1,200 to replace. 

Police officers found a pick-axe and a sledgehammer abandoned amidst the shards of broken glass on the pavement. 

Detective Constable Richard Debnam urged anyone who may have witnessed the attack on the shop or saw any vehicles come into the area at the time, to come forward.

He said: “While this burglary happened in the early hours of the morning, I would ask anyone that might have witnessed the incident or seen a vehicle acting suspiciously in the area to contact me as soon as possible.

Hythe Street. 

“I would also note a word of caution, if you are offered a deal that seems too good to be true then it most probably is.

“If you have concerns about where items of jewellery might have come from, call us immediately.”

You can call Det Con Debnam with information on 01474 366096 quoting reference XY/40641/14. Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.