SCREAMING fled a top Apple Store as a gang of armed raiders burst through the doors and swiped tech gear worth thousands of pounds.
The robbers looted a store in Covent Garden, London in broad daylight this afternoon.
Cops dashed to the scene, but no arrests have yet been made.
Witnesses say the thugs cleared out the shop – before forcing customers to hand over their belongings too.
It’s understood tablets, iPhones, bags and laptops were taken from the outlet in The Piazza.
Graphic designer Charlie Twigg, 29, said the raid happened just five seconds after he walked in for an appointment.
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“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.”
After clearing Apple products from tables, they began taking possessions from customers, he said.
“They were taking things out of people’s hands,” Charlie added.
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“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.”
He said security staff attempted to stop the robbers from leaving, while a brave member of the public chased after them.
“It was quite scary. There were a few screams,” he said.
“It’s a Sunday and a sunny day in Covent Garden, so obviously it was busy.”
Officials from the Met Police say 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.
TERROR AT APPLE STORE
“While this was an understandably scary experience for staff and customers, there were no reports of any physical injuries.”
The force has called 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.
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“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.”
