Major shopping mall opposite the Pentagon is on lockdown with 'high-level government official inside'

Police have responded to a smash-and-grab robbery at ritzy shopping mall across the street from the Pentagon.

Arlington County Police said three suspects entered a business at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and broke a glass display case with hammers and deployed a fire extinguisher. 

The suspects then fled on foot during the raid on Sunday, cops said. 

Police evacuated the mall and it is currently on lockdown.  

It is believed a high ranking government official was inside the mall in Virginia at the time, according to initial reports. 

Arlington County Police said three suspects entered a business at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and broke a glass display case

Police are responding to a smash-and-grab robbery at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City (pictured)

Photos show a backpack and sledgehammers scatter on the mall floor

'The robbery suspects are described as three Black males in their teens wearing all black clothing,' Arlington County PD said on X. 

Police remain on scene and continue to investigate. 

Photos posted to social media show a large police presence inside and outside the building. 

Other photos show a backpack and sledgehammers scatter on the mall floor.