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Police have arrested a man after a gang armed with a pickaxe burgled two properties in north London.
John Cooper, 40, from Lymington Avenue, admitted to the break-ins after being arrested following a police pursuit on Wednesday evening.
The gang first targeted a home in Sheldon Avenue at 6pm before raiding another property in Winnington Road an hour later.
When police arrived at the second scene, a suspect brandished a pickaxe at officers before the group fled in a stolen Audi A3 with false plates. After a chase, they abandoned the vehicle in Osborne Road, where Cooper was arrested. His four accomplices escaped in a black BMW 5 series.
Officers recovered stolen jewellery and cash from both burglaries inside the abandoned Audi.
Detective Inspector Peter Fernandez said: "I am pleased that officers were able to arrest one person, who has been convicted of burglary. Our investigation is now focused on identifying the four outstanding suspects, and I am appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.
"The four men were wearing dark clothing and driving a black BMW 5 series. Might you have seen these men or this car on Wednesday evening? If you saw anything suspicious or have any information please contact police or, to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers."
He added: "We understand burglary is a key concern within the communities of Barnet. This arrest is part of the Met's ongoing response to burglaries in north-west London.
"As seen here, officers will respond to incidents at pace and with courage and determination. Over the next few weeks, local Community Policing teams will be conducting additional patrols across Barnet providing a high visibility presence and offering crime prevention advice. If you do have any concerns please speak to our officers or contact your local team, details of which are available via the Met police website."
Cooper was remanded in custody at Willesden Magistrates' Court on Friday and is awaiting sentencing.
Witnesses or anyone with information should call 101, quoting reference 6443/20non, or contact Crimestoppers to remain anonymous.
