Police were called to atria Watford on Friday after reports of a large crowd causing a disturbance.
Images and footage shared across social media showed youths gathered in the centre at around 2pm.
Police confirmed that a section 35 dispersal order was put in place. A Section 35 dispersal order is a UK police power to disperse troublemakers causing anti-social behavior in a specific area. They can order them to leave and prevent their return for up to 48 hours.
A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Police said: “Police were called just before 2.25pm on Friday (21 July) to reports of a large crowd of young people causing a disturbance inside the atria shopping centre in Watford.
“Officers immediately attended the scene and worked in liaison with the atria centre security staff to manage the crowd, as well as ensure the safety of the wider public.
“A section 35 dispersal order was put in place to prevent further anti-social behaviour, meaning those involved were required by police to leave the area.
“Two teenage boys were initially arrested – one on suspicion of breaching the peace, and the other on suspicion of assault. However, they were both de-arrested and taken home to their parents. Two further teenagers were taken home to their parents and all four will be dealt with appropriately.
“Officers continued to patrol and monitor the situation throughout the afternoon, but most of the young people had left the area of their own accord by 5pm.
“The Safer Neighbourhood Team will contact local secondary schools to discuss the incident and make plans to prevent future disorder.”
