Three cyclists have robbed people of their mobile phones across Ipswich in a trio of separate offences.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incidents which took place between last Saturday and Tuesday.

The first took place on Foxall Road at about 9.45pm on Saturday, August 4, when a female victim in her 20s was walking back from the pub when an unknown male rode past her on a bicycle and stole a mobile phone from her hand.

The second incident took place at 1.30pm, on Tuesday, August 7, when a 21-year-old female victim was walking along Foundation Street when the first suspect came past her on a BMX bike and stopped her.

A second suspect approached her from behind and spoke in a foreign language to the other suspect. They then asked the time which the victim retrieved her phone to check but it was snatched from her hand and they both ran off up Foundation Street. They went out of sight at Tacket Street and had left their bikes behind.

And the third incident, which also took place on Tuesday, August 7, at 6.20pm also on Tacket Street when an 11-year-old girl was sat on a bench waiting for a bus when a male on a bike has approached her and took her phone from her hand and cycled off. The phone was later found by a male who has chased after the boy.

Police are asking for members of the public to be aware and keep their valuables hidden from view where possible. Potential thieves may use the ruse of asking for the time to strangers before snatching a mobile phone from the hands of the owner.

Anyone who witnessed the incidents, saw any suspicious behaviour or has knowledge of the incidents should contact Suffolk Constabulary on 101, quoting the relevant crime reference. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org