Police are concerned by the number of thefts committed in licensed premises.

In particular, mobile phones and personal bags are disappearing and Eastern Adelaide police are warning people to be extra careful with their possessions.

Chief Inspector Kym Thomas of Eastern Adelaide Local Service Area says weekends are the high risk time.

“Saturday and Sunday between 10pm and 4 am in the CBD is where we’re seeing the highest number of thefts occurring.”

“Between 1st April and 25th May 2011, we had 46 mobile phones reported stolen from licensed premises.”

“Most of the phones were left unattended.”   

“Additionally, there have been 29 reports of bags, purses and wallets stolen from licensed premises in the CBD during this same time.”

Police say patrons should use common sense and keep their property safe at all times, and particularly not leave valuable items unattended at the bar or on tables, even for very short periods of time.

“This type of theft is mainly opportunistic, so patrons can play a major role in crime prevention by not providing thieves with easy opportunities.”