POLICE found sledgehammers and pick-axes at the scene of a smash and grab at Brent Cross Shopping Centre this morning.

Five men in their 20s and 30s have been arrested after dozens of people smashed through windows and stole items of jewellery at 2.30am this morning.

The suspects tried to flee by foot and on bicycles.

A large number of jewellery, watches, sledge hammers and pick axes were later found at the scene.

Police are now trying to track down the remaining suspects and recover the stolen items.

Inspector Fifi Gulam-Husen of Barnet Police said: "The public should be reassured that Met officers respond rapidly around the clock to tackle crime across London. This morning's arrests demonstrate our determination to act with speed, intelligence and tenacity to catch criminals and to keep Londoners safe."