Gold bracelets, chains and rings were among items stolen by a pair of robbers who targeted a Queen Street shop today.

Police were called at about 10.35am to ER Aubrey Jewellers, where the smash-and-grab strike is believed to have taken place during business hours.

An eyewitness said later that a female member of staff inside the shop could be heard screaming when a robber burst in and took items.

The Bermuda Police Service said this afternoon that one suspect entered the shop wearing a black bubble jacket, light grey pants, black gloves and adidas shoes.

“He concealed a large sledgehammer under his jacket, which he used to smash display cases before seizing a quantity of jewellery,” the BPS added.

“He then fled the scene and mounted a red and black motorcycle.”

The second suspect was said to have been dressed entirely in black and remained on the bike while the robbery took place, then assisted in the getaway.

Police said that the stolen items included various gold bracelets, chains and rings.

“All items are believed to be between 14-carat and 18-carat gold,” the BPS added.

The robbery happened two weeks after Crisson Jewellers — which is directly across the street from ER Aubrey — was one of three businesses raided when Hurricane Imelda passed over the island.

A staff member there said today that someone walked into the neighbouring store this morning, “smashed the glass, grabbed things and left”.

“The lady in the shop was screaming,” the employee added. “It’s scary.”

Crisson reopened about five days after it was targeted, which was likely between 1.55am and 3.30am on October 2 as the hurricane passed.

Police also investigated break-ins that happened at about the same time at the Gem Cellar on Reid Street and the Shelly Bay MarketPlace, while the businesses were closed for the storm.

The Gem Cellar burglary was understood to have taken place between 3pm on October 1 and 3pm on October 2.

Meanwhile, the Shelly Bay MarketPlace reported a burglary at 8.30am on October 2.

Reflecting on the series of jewellery store incidents, a Crisson representative said this morning: “It’s making it quite apparent that we need to beef up security in general.”

It was suggested that more cameras may be required at the store, as well as the potential employment of a private security firm.

The representative added: “Businesses, especially on a stretch of road like this, should probably come together a little bit more to protect and look out for each other.

“At the end of the day, what happens across the street affects everybody.”

Police appealed for anyone who was in the Queen Street area around the time of the incident today, and who may have witnessed suspicious activity or has relevant information, to immediately call the main police number 295-0011, the non-emergency reporting number 211, or to visit portal.police.bm.

Details can also be reported to Crime Stoppers, which is independent and confidential, by calling 800-8477.

Alternatively, information can also be passed to a familiar police officer.

The BPS said: “This investigation is in its early stages and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

“The Bermuda Police Service appreciate the continued support and vigilance of the public.”

A word of warning was issued to anyone who might be offered jewellery at reduced rates.

“The BPS wish to advise the public to exercise caution if approached to purchase items of jewellery at prices below their true value, as you may be purchasing an item linked to this robbery,” the service said.

“Should you have any suspicions or concerns about the item being sold or the individual selling the item, please report these to the police.

“Do not allow yourself to become a victim of financial crime.

“You should also be aware that under the Criminal Code Act 1907, ‘a person guilty of handling stolen goods shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000 or to imprisonment for five years, or both; and on conviction on indictment, to a fine of $150,000 or imprisonment for 14 years, or both’.”

ER Aubrey was also the target of a reported robbery in March 2023, when police appealed for information after a man was said to have entered the shop asking to look at a gold chain on display.

He was reported to have snatched the chain from a shop clerk’s hand and run out without payment.

• UPDATE: this article now includes information and comment from the Bermuda Police Service