The High Value Gang, who were armed with claw hammers, struck at Selfridges and Harvey Nichols
Gangs, who were armed with claw hammers, struck at Selfridges in Exchange Square and Harvey Nichols in New Cathedral Street at 1100 BST. Three men went into Selfridges and smashed glass counters before stealing several watches worth about £400,000. Two men wearing helmets attacked a security guard in Harvey Nichols, before taking watches worth £300,000. The guard was taken to hospital with minor injuries. The five men left in a red Ford Transit van, which has since been recovered on Mirabel Street. These men were after high-value pieces The van is believed to have been recently stolen from the Prestwich area but had since been fitted with false number plates. The five men then made their getaway in an unknown vehicle. Greater Manchester Police said the two incidents were linked and inquiries were continuing. Det Sgt Dave Turner said: "This incident has left one man with minor injuries and a number of other people extremely distressed. "These men seem to have had a clear plan ...