A gang of armed robbers broke into a UK Apple store and stole thousands of pounds worth of gear – with terrified shoppers finding themselves caught up in the commotion.
Yesterday afternoon, 17 July, the thieves took to the Apple store in the busy shopping area of Covent Garden in London and made their heist in broad daylight, taking items from the shop as well as several belongings from horrified customers.
Police eventually arrived onto the scene, but no arrests have yet been made, according to The Sun.
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As well as taking iPhones, bags and laptops from the Apple outlet situated in The Piazza, customers were also forced to hand over personal items at the behest of the armed mob.
One man who was caught up in the melee said the raid happened just five seconds after he walked in for an appointment.
"I turned around and there were at least ten men in balaclavas," he told The Sun. "They pushed through the entrance past the security and they started grabbing anything they could."
The man said they started taking possession from customers after clearing Apple products from tables.
"They were taking things out of people’s hands," he added. "I don’t know if they had any weapons – it was all very quick.
"I would say within a minute it had all started and finished."
According to the witness, security staff attempted to stop the robbers from leaving, while a member of the public also tried to chase after them.
He said: "It was quite scary. There were a few screams It’s a Sunday and a sunny day in Covent Garden, so obviously it was busy."
According to the Met Police, an investigation is under way.
A spokesperson said: "At around 1.10pm on Sunday, July 17, police received several calls reporting that a group of males had forced their way into a shop in The Piazza, Covent Garden.
"Some of the group were reported to have been carrying weapons.
"It is alleged that they stole a number of items before running from the area in different directions.
"While this was an understandably scary experience for staff and customers, there were no reports of any physical injuries."
They’re calling for anyone with information to come forward.
"Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has photos or video footage of it, is asked to call 101 with the reference 3815/17JUL," the spokesperson said.
"Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Reps from Apple said: "The safety and security of customers and our team members is always our top priority.
"We are supporting the authorities with their investigation of the robbery in Covent Garden and are grateful for their quick response.
"We also thank our team members for everything they do to support our customers and each other.”
Simon Catling