A shocking video from a Whitgift Centre store shows the extent of the town's youth gang problems.

The film, captured by CCTV cameras in Urban Junction shows a group of teens swagger into the store before ripping a gold chain from around a store worker's neck.

While the shop assistant is distracted by talking to the group of young robbers some of the group steal clothing and shoes.

The store's fed up manager said he was fighting a constant battle against young hooligans who have no respect for the law.

He also claimed the shopping centre's security staff were afraid of taking on the gangs and traders were being abandoned.

Shop owner Mohammed Khan said: "We are in a predicament here, my boys are scared to come into work and we're not getting any help from anyone."

A spokesman for the Whitgift Centre said: "The retailers are responsible for the security and stock on their premises and we are responsible for providing the security to the mall."

He added security staff would assist if called on the centre's radio system, CRAC (Croydon Radio Against Crime), but pointed out that system had not been used during this incident.

He also said the stolen clothing had not been security tagged

Do you know any of the group?

Call 020 8330 9555.