Police are on the hunt for three suspects forced entry into a premises armed with knives and tied up victims before leaving with a quantity of jewellery.

Officers were called to a residential address in Beech Hill in Cockfosters yesterday at 5.04pm following reports of an aggravated burglary.

The suspects wore balaclavas during the burglary and fled the scene in a car.

None of the occupants were harmed during the incident.

A member of the public reported seeing one of the men carrying a firearm.

Officers from North Area Command Unit are investigating the crime.

A number of detailed enquires are in hand including forensic analysis and CCTV footage review at the time of the incident.

At this stage there have been no arrests.

Detectives are following up leads and are appealing for anyone who passed by and witnessed anything suspicious to call police.

Detective Inspector Paul Ridley from North Area said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the individuals at home.

"Thankfully none were harmed although they were very alarmed by the nature of the break in and subsequent burglary.

"We need to catch the culprits.

"If you were passing the area or perhaps in traffic nearby and saw anything suspicious, we would like to hear from you.

"I can reassure residents that there will be enhanced patrols in the vicinity and the officers in my investigation team will be making concerted efforts to seek witnesses and apprehend those responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 ref CAD 5656/6 Feb or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.