Five teenagers have been arrested after an atria Watford fashion store had nearly £2,000 worth of clothes stolen.

Herts Police were alerted by CCTV operators to an incident in Uniqlo at around 1.45pm on Sunday, October 29, which left the shop's main door broken.

Today (October 30), the force confirmed a 16-year-old was arrested on Cassio Road, with another boy of the same age arrested in High Street.

Watford Observer: The shop was left with a broken door after the incident on Sunday. The shop was left with a broken door after the incident on Sunday. (Image: Submitted)

Three more males, aged 18, 15 and 16, were all arrested at Watford Junction, half an hour after the CCTV operators made police aware.

The stolen clothing, which was estimated to have been worth £1,900, was taken back to the store and all of those arrested were taken into custody.

The group have since been released on bail and the terms have stated that they must not enter Watford for any reason.

Staff reportedly tried to lock the doors during the incident, according to a shopper inside, who told the Watford Observer it was "very scary" and left onlookers in shock.

An atria Watford spokesperson said: “We can confirm an incident occurred at the centre yesterday afternoon, involving a group of young males. The police were called and dealt with the situation swiftly, to ensure the safety of our guests, which is our number one priority.”

Sergeant Brad Cross, who leads the Watford central safer neighbourhood team, added: “This was a high-visibility incident and those in the town centre yesterday would have witnessed a heavy police presence which they may have found concerning.

“It’s worth noting that those who were arrested are not local, and we want to send a strong, clear message: if you think Watford is an easy target for retail theft, think again.”

Deputy mayor and portfolio holder for community, Cllr Aga Dychton, said: “The swift action taken against these individuals is a testament to our Community Safety Partnership, Safer Watford, and the collective effort of all of the dedicated individuals and team who are ensuring the welfare of our community."

Information can be reported to police via their website or non-emergency number 101.