A GANG of five men stole an iPhone after targeting a mobile phone shop in Braintree.

The men entered Carphone Warehouse in George Yard Shopping Centre at around 3pm on Saturday.

They pulled down a cupboard inside the store and one of the men managed to steal a silver Apple iPhone before they escaped.

Witnesses saw security staff giving chase to the men, but unfortunately they were unable to catch them.

Brenda Baker, manager of George Yard, said: "It is disappointing they got away but they were heading towards the train station when staff lost them.

"It is the most shocking incident of its kind we have had in George Yard for a long time.

"However we are pleased there was no significant property damage, no one was hurt and we were able to chase them out of the centre.

"Hopefully they will not come back any time soon."

A Carphone Warehouse spokesperson said: “The safety and wellbeing of all our staff and customers is our utmost priority.

"The investigation into this incident is ongoing and anyone with any further information should contact the local police.”

Essex Police are aware of the incident and enquiries are taking place.

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Braintree local policing team on 101 quoting reference 42/19613/18.