Moped gang shake off police after jewellery heist at exclusive hotel

A gang of six men pulled up on mopeds outside the Dorchester Hotel in Mayfair in London in the early hours of yesterday and smashed display cabinets, stealing watches and jewellery.

In the wake of the heist, which police said was well-planned, the robbers managed to shake off pursuing officers just over a mile away in Shaftesbury Avenue. One of the bikes hit a 25-year-old woman in Cambridge Circus as the gang fled, leaving her with leg injuries that required hospital treatment.

Detective Constable Alex Flanagan said: “We are in the early stages of our investigation and I would like to hear from anyone who was on Park Lane or nearby who may have seen the robbery or the men making their escape.

“Likewise I am keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the accident that took place in Cambridge Circus. This was a well-planned and thought through robbery and there may be people who know who is responsible and I am keen for those with any information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist us with our investigation.”

The raid follows similar robberies that have taken place in London’s West End, where thieves have arrived on bikes and tried to smash their way into jewellery stores.

A Dorchester spokeswoman said: “The hotel security team were quick to respond and the matter is now in the hands of the police. As ever the comfort and security of our guests and employees remains our top priority.”