Police have reissued an appeal for witnesses to an aggravated burglary in Bermondsey where three masked men burst into a family home armed with a machine gun, rifle and machete.
The family-of-six were watching television at their home in Grange Road when the armed intruders came in through the open patio doors, threatening to shoot the children and elderly relatives on Saturday June 9.
The criminals demanded money and access to the safe in the shocking incident, which took place shortly after midnight – but eventually fled empty-handed.
Now Crimestoppers, the anonymous crime reporting charity, has offered up to £1,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the thugs behind the terrifying ordeal, which has left the family traumatised.
DC Dave Reed from the Met’s Flying Squad, said: “These three men entered this family’s home armed with an array of weapons, striking terror into the whole family.
“Two children were present at the time, and they have understandably been left traumatised by this incident.”
DC Reed said police were unaware of any prior motive and appealed for the public’s help in catching the criminals.
He said: “If you have any information about this incident, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please contact police. You will be treated in the strictest confidence.”
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While left shaken by the harrowing incident, none of the family members were injured.
The first suspect is described as of Mediterranean appearance, possibly Turkish, aged in his 30s, 5ft 5 inches tall, of slim build, wearing black clothing and a balaclava. He was armed with a large, two feet long rifle.
The second is also described as of Mediterranean appearance, possibly Turkish, believed to be in his 30s, 5ft 7 inches tall, of slim build, wearing black clothes and a balaclava.
He was armed with a machete.
The third man is described as a light skinned black male, of slim build, 5ft 9 inches tall, wearing black clothes and a balaclava.
He was believed to have been armed with a machine gun.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Flying Squad detectives on 020 8345 4219.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers completely anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use their non-traceable online form.