A teenage boy was robbed by two males wearing balaclavas in atria Watford.

The victim was about to use the escalators on the upper floor between Cineworld and Next Home when he was approached by the robbers and led away.

They then took his bag, which contained an iPhone and some Apple AirPods, before shoppers tried to stop them.

Investigator Kirsty Treanor, from the Local Crime Unit, said: “Several members of the public intervened and managed to retrieve the victim’s phone, however his other items are still outstanding.”

The males then fled and the victim was unhurt.

Following the robbery at around 3.50pm on Wednesday, December 21, police today (January 5) appealed for witnesses.

“We have already spoken with a number of people who saw what happened and are also conducting CCTV enquiries, but would still be keen to hear from further witnesses as part of our ongoing investigation,” investigator Treanor continued.

“The area was busy with Christmas shoppers at the time, so it’s likely more people will have information to assist us.

“If you saw the robbery, or witnessed two males running away from the area, please get in touch.”

Information can be reported via 101 quoting reference 41/103163/22.