Mobile phone thieves have struck three times in Colchester in the last few days.

In response to the crimes, police warned owners of phones not to put them down in public places but to keep them securely in a pocket or bag.

One of the thefts was at the NatWest bank in Stanway after a silver and black Nokia 8310 was snatched from a counter where it had been put down by its owner.

The other two were reported in Colchester while the victims were out shopping.

In one case, the owner was carrying a Nokia 7210 in a shoulder bag and the phone, plus £20 cash, were taken from it.

The second happened in High Street while the victim had the phone in a handbag.

Published Wednesday, June 4, 2003

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