Sawed-off shotguns, skilled makeup artists used in massive UK diamond heist, court hears
By APWednesday, April 21, 2010
Massive UK diamond heist meticulously planned
LONDON — Prosecutors say thieves used sawed-off shotguns and professional makeup artists in a carefully planned diamond heist last summer.
They say nine robbers made off with gems, then worth 40 million pounds ($65 million), from the exclusive Graff Diamonds flagship store in London’s posh New Bond Street shopping district during a violent daytime raid.
The men are accused of kidnapping, conspiracy and other crimes stemming from one of Britain’s biggest-ever jewel heists.
Prosecutors said Wednesday that one woman employee was briefly taken hostage during the robbery.
The store closed briefly after the robbery and has since reopened with additional security systems and personnel.
All nine defendants deny the charges.
