Shoppers could be seen fleeing after a Michael Hill jewellery store was targeted by thieves in a brazen smash-and-grab at a popular Auckland mall this afternoon.
Police said they received reports of a robbery at Dress Smart Onehunga around 2.25pm.
“It’s understood a group of people have entered the premises with weapons, which were not firearms, and broken several cabinets,” a spokesperson said.
A 1News reporter on the scene said three to four people wearing masks targeted the Michael Hill store.
“One was carrying something that looked like a machete.”
Video shows one of the thieves brandishing this weapon at the entrance to the jewellery store.
“It seemed to be over pretty quickly, within a minute or two.”
Further footage shows the thieves making their escape to a vehicle waiting outside the premises.
Shoppers can be seen running as the thieves race past them carrying bags.
Police said a number of officers are in the area while inquiries are ongoing to locate those involved, as well as to establish the full circumstances, including determining what was taken.
“Thankfully, no injuries were reported to those who were in and around the premises at the time, and police will be providing support to those impacted.”