Surrey Detectives Nab Jewellery Gang in Million-Pound Robbery Sting
Four men have been locked up for a monstrous jewellery heist in Staines-upon-Thames. The gang snatched millions worth of bling from a salesman in a terrifying car park attack last year.
Brutal Attack in Broad Daylight
The victim, a jewellery salesman for top US brand Le Vian, was assaulted at 8.20am on 13 May 2019. While unloading a suitcase full of high-value jewellery in the Elmsleigh Centre car park, he was savagely punched and kicked to the head and body.
His watch was ripped from his wrist during the attack, breaking his bones. Despite the injuries, the salesman escaped and sought help — only to find his priceless jewellery stolen.
Four Men Sentenced to 65 Years Total
- Lee Jason Gardner, 48, Tottenham – 18 years
- Camilo Carvajal, 39, Lewisham – 17 years
- Ciro Troyano, 40, Elephant and Castle – 16 years
- Oscar Hicks, 37, Southwark – 14 years
All were convicted of conspiracy to rob at Kingston Crown Court following a lengthy trial.
Surrey Police Crack the Case With Tech
Detectives pieced together hours of CCTV and ANPR footage, tracking the gang’s movements days before the robbery. Key details emerged:
- The gang used a stolen Mercedes with fake plates busted speeding out of the car park 5 minutes after the crime
- Troyano was spotted casing the town centre shop the day before
- Gardner scouted the car park hours before the robbery
- Phones, jewellery, and victim’s stolen items were recovered in police raids
Victim Speaks Out After Nightmare
“I was left black and blue from the punches and kicks – the violence was totally unnecessary. I would have handed over the jewellery without a fight,” said the traumatised salesman.
“I lost my clothes, phone, wallet, ID and passport, stranded in a foreign country. Now, I feel vulnerable travelling in the UK.”
“I hope those responsible reflect and turn their lives around. Big thanks to Surrey Police and the CPS for their support.”
Detective’s Verdict
DS Kate Hyder praised her team for their dogged work, saying: “This was a brutal, professional attack that has left the victim traumatised. The sentences handed down reflect the seriousness of these crimes.”
“We pieced together CCTV, ANPR, and mobile phone data to nail these men. Now they are behind bars, hopefully justice can provide some peace.”
