A British jury convicted three additional conspirators in what prosecutors called the largest burglary in English legal history, a meticulously planned Easter weekend heist that netted approximately $17 million in gold, diamonds, and sapphires from a London vault, with two-thirds of the stolen valuables still missing.

The Elaborate Vault Break-In

The gang struck Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Ltd in London’s jewelry district over Easter 2015, using heavy cutting equipment to bore through a vault wall after descending through an elevator shaft. Surveillance cameras captured crew members arriving in a white van on April 2, unloading tools for what they expected would be a straightforward job. When a metal cabinet blocked their initial attempt, they regrouped and returned two nights later with different equipment to complete the operation.

Carl Wood, 58, William Lincoln, 60, and Hugh Doyle, 48, were found guilty by the Woolwich Crown Court jury of their roles in the conspiracy. Jon Harbinson, Lincoln’s nephew, was cleared of all charges after spending eight months in custody. Four ringleaders had previously pleaded guilty, including two criminals with connections to previous major British heists worth tens of millions of dollars.

Career Criminals and Careful Planning

The prosecution revealed the burglary took three years to plan, with conspirators meeting regularly at The Castle pub on Pentonville Road and a nearby cafe called Scotti’s to coordinate their operation. Brian Reader, one of the ringleaders, had participated in the notorious $32 million Brinks Mat gold bullion robbery. Terry Perkins had been involved in the $7.5 million Security Express raid. Detective Superintendent Craig Turner described the crime as audacious and brazen, noting that half the gang chose guilty pleas when confronted with overwhelming evidence.

The Investigation Continues

Authorities continue searching for a mysterious accomplice known only as “Basil,” who allegedly opened the fire escape from inside the building to allow his co-conspirators entry. The Metropolitan Police have offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction. Crown Prosecution Service lawyer Ed Hall emphasized that old-fashioned investigative methods led police to the close-knit group of experienced criminals. The 56 ransacked safe deposit boxes held valuables belonging to multiple victims, though the majority remains unrecovered despite successful prosecutions.