Goldsmith Janne Wouters’ shop and workshop on Melkweg in Hapert was burgled during the night from Thursday to Friday. According to Wouters, several masked men forced open the entrance, used a jack to gain access and spent about three minutes inside, damaging the shop and taking gold and diamond jewellery, much of it made by her. Customers’ jewellery stored in a safe was not taken, she said.

Police investigated the area and forensic officers examined the premises. No suspects have been arrested, and police are working on the assumption that three perpetrators were involved. The value of the stolen items was not yet known. Wouters said she hoped to reopen as soon as possible so customers could collect repairs.