Ram-raiders bundled thousands of pounds worth of jewellery into dustbins after smashing their way into a store in Birmingham.
An old Rover Metro was driven through the window of Argos catalogue store at the One Stop Shopping Centre, Perry Barr, in the late night raid.
At least two smash-and-grab raiders were believed to have entered the store filling dustbins with around 350 items of jewellery worth an estimated £9,500.
It is thought they may try to off-load the jewellery in pubs and clubs or at car-boot sales.
Det Con Indy Basra, from Thornhill Road CID, said they escaped in a dark- coloured Audi estate following the raid at 10.30pm on Tuesday.
A number of bins were left at the scene and police were today trying to trace where they may have been purchased.
“I’d appeal to anyone who may have been offered large quantities of jewellery for sale or anyone who saw the two vehicles driving in tandem before the incident to come forward,” said Det Con Basra.
The Metro was left at the scene and sent by police for examination by forensic specialists in the hunt for clues to the thieves.
Detectives at Thornhill Road CID say anyone with information can call them on 0845 113 5000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
