Mastermind jailed for £1m raids

A gang of young robbers stole money, watches and jewellery worth more than £1 million at the command of a notorious criminal.

The 12-strong team aged between 18 and 29 attacked jewellers and cash vans across London during a three-month spree beginning last April.

They were recruited by Dean Oxley, 30, who watched the robberies.

Oxley was arrested after an attack on Marmalade jewellers in Chiswick in July. During the robberies, £1,025,900 of property was stolen. Oxley, of no fixed address, was sentenced to 12 years after being convicted at Kingston crown court of three counts of conspiracy to rob.

Detective Sergeant Steve Kiely of the Flying Squad said: "Oxley was an influential figure in organised crime circles. He regarded himself as untouchable, remaining at arm's length of any robbery."