2009 Graff Diamonds robbery

[7][8] On 6 August 2009 at 4:40 pm, two sharply dressed men arrived at the Graff Diamonds jewellery store in New Bond Street, Central London, by taxi and once inside produced two handguns which they used to threaten staff.

[citation needed] Even though one of the robbers was wearing leather gloves, store security allowed him entry, being used to the eccentric behaviour of some super-wealthy clients.

[9] After releasing the hostage outside the store, one of the robbers fired a shot into the air to create confusion, and both escaped the scene in a blue BMW vehicle.

[citation needed] After the collision, in their haste to transfer to a second vehicle, the robbers forgot the mobile phone that was wedged between the driver's seat and the handbrake.

[citation needed] On 20 August 2009, two men, Calderwood, 26, of no fixed abode, and Solomun Beyene, 24, of Lilestone Road, London NW8, were charged in connection with the robbery.

[12] On 21 August, a third man, Clinton Mogg, 42, of Westby Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, was also charged, and Calderwood and Beyene were remanded in custody by Westminster Magistrates' Court.

[15] Charges brought against the individuals include conspiracy with others to commit robbery, attempted murder, holding someone hostage, possessing firearms and using a handgun to resist arrest.

[16][17] Kassaye, who planned and executed the heist, was found guilty of conspiracy to rob, kidnap and possession of a firearm after a three-month trial at Woolwich Crown Court.