Police hunt ’tradies’ after $2m Dandenong jewellery store heist

A jewellery store employee was left bound and gagged as two men, dressed like tradies, stole cash and jewellery worth more than $2m.

A Melbourne jewellery store employee was bound and held at knifepoint while two men stole more than $2m in cash and gold jewellery from his workplace.

On Monday, Victoria Police released CCTV and computer generated images of two “tradies” believed to be responsible for the brazen heist.

The male employee was working alone about 6pm on December 29 when two men entered the store in Dandenong’s CBD.

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said the men, dressed in tradie clothes and vests, assaulted and threatened the employee with a knife.

“He was forced at knifepoint to open the safe,” she said.

“The victim was then tied up with his hands bound and his mouth gagged as the offenders set about robbing the store.”

Police have released computer-generated images of two men believed to have been involved in an armed robbery at a Dandenong jewellery store on December 29, 2022. Picture: Victoria Police

The men stole more than $2m in cash and jewellery. Picture: Victoria Police

Police believe the men stole cash, gold necklaces, bracelets, pendants and rings valued between $2 and 2.5m.

The men fled in the victim’s car; however, investigators believe they changed vehicles and were later captured on CCTV driving a silver Toyota Camry.

The spokeswoman said both men were described as “very strong” and wore gloves and face coverings.

“Detectives have also released computer-generated images of two men believed to have been involved in the hope someone will come forward with information,” she said.

The first man was perceived to be caucasian, about 165cm tall, with a skinny build, while the second was about 175-180cm tall and believed to be aged in his late 50s.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.