Two teenage boys have been arrested in connection with a series of mobile phone thefts in Ipswich over the weekend.

The pair were taken into custody on Sunday, August 12, and brought to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre where they were questioned by detectives.

Both have now been released under investigation whilst enquiries continue.

It comes amid a spate of thefts in Ipswich where mobile phones were snatched out of people’s hands.

Over the weekend six people had phones stolen, between 10pm on Saturday night and 1am on Sunday morning.

The week before, police appealed for witnesses to come forward following three thefts of mobile phones in the town, including one theft where a 11-year-old girl was targeted,

In light of the recent spate of thefts, officers from Suffolk police are urging the public to be cautious if approached and asked for the time.

This may be a tactic used by phone thieves, giving them a chance to snatch your phone while you use it to see the time.

Additionally, police are urging the public to continue to be vigilant and take a few precautions to avoid becoming a victim.

By taking a few simple steps you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of phone theft

•Always use the security lock code on your smart phone

•Register your phone with the provider as they will be able to stop your phone being used if you report it as stolen

•Consider installing a smart phone tracking app on your device

•When using your phone, be aware of your surroundings and do not use it in crowded areas or where you feel unsafe

•Avoid displaying your phone in public, and keep it with you at all times and do not leave it unattended.

•The 15-digit serial or IMEI number helps to identify your phone and can be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones or by looking behind the battery of your phone. Make a note of this number and keep it separate from your phone, as this number could help the police to trace ownership quickly if it is stolen.

•You can also register your phone free at www.immobilise.com. If your phone is lost or stolen, they can then block both your SIM card and phone. If the phone is found by the police they will be able to trace the owner through Immobilise.

What to do if your phone is stolen

•Report the theft to the police as soon as possible, they will want the following details: phone model details; phone number; and serial/IMEI number (if you have it);

•Contact your service provider immediately, giving the number of the phone. The network operator will then identify the IMEI number (International Mobile Equipment Identity) for the handset and arrange for it to be blocked on all networks. This means that even if the SIM card is swapped the phone will still be useless.