It could have been a scene from a gangster movie and passers-by who witnessed this robbery in London yesterday certainly treated it like one.
While self-preservation may have stopped them from intervening, the robbers weren't too scared to stand there and enjoy the show. It was extraordinary because there were dozens of people watching and taking pictures. At least 60 people were on the pavement opposite.
One older gentleman was so unconcerned that he strolled right past the motorbike riding gang breaking into the branch of jewellers Mappin & Webb at 11.20am.
(Four robbers break into a jewellery store as another stands guard, while witnesses simply watch or stroll past)
The store's staff were probably a little more concerned as the robbers, still wearing their helmets, smashed the window on Old Bond Street. Luckily, no one was hurt. The gang grabbed tens of thousands of pounds worth of loot, and then roared away.
There were claims that police officers took 25 minutes to arrive on the scene, giving the robbers plenty of time. Witness Petra Remias, 25, who works in a shop opposite said: 'The men started banging on the window with a huge hammer - it made a horrible noise.
(A gang member smashes the glass and then leans in to snatch fistfuls of gems and watches)
'It was like a gangster movie. People in the street started gathering around in a semi-circle to watch. 'The raid lasted between five and ten minutes, it wasn't quick.'
(A forensic officer gathers evidence at the site)
