THIRTEEN mobile phones have been stolen from people in Ipswich town centre over the past three weekends.

The phones have been stolen from unattended bags or when the owner has been distracted at a number of venues.

Officers are urged members of the public to report suspicious activity to door staff, venue employees or police.

Temporary Inspector Danny Cooper said: “When you’re having a good time it can be hard to remember to take care when leaving your bag open to pay for drinks or when someone bumps into you on the dance floor.

“But these are the times when thieves strike; when you are distracted.

“Pay attention and don’t make it easy for them.

“It could mean the difference between having your phone at the end of the night or not.

“If you are going out with a group of friends then ensure that you look out for each other.”

Advice includes keeping valuables in a zipped bag or pocket, not leaving it unattended on a table or at the bar and downloading a tracking application if your phone is stolen.