Published: 12/03/2010 16:10 - Updated: 12/03/2010 16:14

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after jewellery was stolen from a shop in Stevenage.

The incident happened at 1.20pm  on Thursday (March 11) at John Lyons in the Westgate shopping centre. It is alleged two men entered the shop, opened a locked glass cabinet and took items of jewellery before running away in the direction of The Forum.

Neighbourhood Inspector for Stevenage, Steve Hague said: “We believe one of the offenders ran into an underpass near the Forum, changed tops and ran back into town. He could also have got into a vehicle at that location.

“I am very keen to speak to anyone who believes they saw a man running away from the scene. Did you see him get into a vehicle?”

Anyone who believes they have information about this incident is asked to call police via the non-emergency number on 0845 33 00 222. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Octavian Dumitru, aged 20 and from Tylecroft Road in Croydon, has been charged in connection with the incident and remains in police custody. He was due to appear at Central Herts Magistrates' Court on Friday (March 12).