Three schoolboys arrested after two teen girls ‘sexually assaulted’ at shopping centre

Three boys, aged between 11 and 14, have been arrested following reports of a sexual assault at a Watford shopping centre.

Two 14-year-old girls had allegedly been approached by a group inside Atria Watford just after midday on Saturday, March 9.

The two teenagers were then followed by the group before they were “inappropriately touched”, police said.

The three boys – a 14-year-old, a 13-year-old, and an 11-year-old – were subsequently arrested on suspicion of sexual assault “following fast-time enquiries” by Hertfordshire Constabulary.

The trio have since been released on police bail with “strict conditions” while police enquiries continue.

Inspector Dan Jones, leader of Watford’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We understand that news of this incident will cause concern among the wider community, and we hope news of the arrests are reassuring.

“We are supporting both victims, keeping them and their families updated on our investigation as it progresses.

“This incident happened during a busy Saturday in the town centre and we’re urging anyone who believes they witnessed what happened to please come forward to help us with our enquiries.”

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Police have asked members of the public with any information to speak to them by calling 101, quoting reference number 41/19858/24.

The service also said people could, in full anonymity, contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.