Published: 20 July 2013

CAUGHT on CCTV, this is the terrifying moment two robbers armed with a sledgehammer and a gun raided a money transfer shop in Swiss Cottage yesterday (Friday) lunchtime.

The images were released today by Flying Squad detectives hunting the thieves as part of their public appeal for help.

The robbery took place shortly before 12.45 at the Western Union branch in Finchley Road.

Two men entered the store – one brandishing a handgun, the other armed with a sledgehammer.

The suspect holding the gun threatened to shoot staff and demanded they hand over money.

Meanwhile, the second suspect repeatedly struck the glass screen that separates staff from customers with the sledgehammer.

Between £8,000 and £10,000 – in a mixture of Sterling and Euro notes – was passed to the gunman by a terrified staff member and the cash was put into a bag before both men ran off.

They were seen heading down Finchley Road before turning left into Fitzjohns Avenue. They then got into a waiting car, a silver Renault Laguna, and drove away north, in the direction of Hampstead.

Nobody suffered any injuries during the incident.

Detective Constable Johnny Baker, of the Flying Squad based at Finchley, said: "This was an horrific attack with the suspects using extreme force, and the threat of force, to rob the staff at gunpoint. I would appeal to anyone who knows anything about the incident or these suspects to get in touch with officers, so no more victims have to suffer the violence they are clearly willing to perpetrate."

Anybody with information that could assist the investigation should call detectives on 020 8358 1751. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.