NSW: Diamond theft happened under guard of security firm: fair

AAP General News (Australia)
08-23-2006
NSW: Diamond theft happened under guard of security firm: fair

One of the biggest diamond heists in the history of NSW occurred while the jewels were
being guarded by a private security company .. according to the organisers of a jewelry
fair.

The collection of more than 500 stones was to be displayed at an exhibit at the trade-only
Australian Jewellery Fair at Darling Harbour .. but the security bag containing the jewels
failed to turn up.

The bag was one of six sent to the fair from a jewellery company in Melbourne.

The Jewellers Association of Australia says five arrived on Saturday morning but one
didn't turn up and was later declared missing.

Police initially told reporters today the diamonds had arrived at the exhibition centre
.. but later would not comment about where they think the theft took place.

Australian Jewellery Fair organiser GARY FITZROY says the theft is a matter between
the Melbourne-based jewellery firm that was to exhibit the diamonds .. and the specialised
armoured transport company.

AAP RTV kjd/klw/sp/bart

KEYWORD: DIAMONDS (SYDNEY)

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