Metropolitan Police: Appeal following theft of cash from safe, Barnet

Detectives investigating a burglary which saw thousands of pounds stolen from a charitable collection container in Barnet are appealing for information.

Officers were called to the Old Elizabethans Memorial Playing Fields on Mays Lane, EN5 at about 07:00hrs on Monday, 25 June.

Between midday on Sunday, 24 June and 07:00hrs on Monday, 25 June, approximately £45,000 cash was stolen from a safe within the pavilion building.

The money was raised for a cancer charity during a ‘Summer Soulstice Festival’ on Saturday, 23 June which was attended and supported by thousands of community members.

Officers from Barnet CID are investigating.

No arrests have been made.

Detective Inspector Julian Worrell, who is leading the investigation, said: “A large sum of money had been generously donated by members of the public to help support a local cancer charity.

“We all have family and friends that have been affected by this terrible illness and some person or people have selfishly stolen this charitable money for their own gain.

“I am appealing to anyone that can provide any information to help assist us in finding those responsible for this crime and hopefully recover the cash.

“The burglary happened in a remote area around Mays Lane – did you see anyone acting suspiciously? Or are you aware of anyone unexpectedly in receipt of a large sum of cash?

“Any information may be of vital use and I would urge you to contact Barnet CID as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Barnet CID on 020 8733 4125 or 101 quoting Crime Reference 1481/25June.

Alternatively if you wish to give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

No arrests; enquiries continue.