SIX people have been mugged for their mobile phones in New-port over the past three months, police have revealed.

Forty-eight mobile phones have been reported stolen in the Newport area in the last three months - six taken from people in the street.

The news comes after we reported yesterday how Newport student Matthew Jones, aged 17, of St Vincent Road, became the latest victim when he was beaten up in broad daylight for his phone.

But Detective Inspector Dave Edwards, of Newport central police station, said: "We've had six taken from people in the street, mostly involving youngsters who have basically had it snatched out of their hand.

"The major problem is theft of mobile phones from motor vehicles. The problem is people leaving them clearly visible and opportunists breaking in.

"We've had 31 of those thefts reported between July 1 and September 30. Eleven were stolen during burglaries inside a house.

"I would appeal to people to at least hide their phone inside their vehicle or take it with them."

DI Edwards said he would advise anyone carrying their phone in the street not to have it on display.

He said: "Children have them in their hands all the time. It would be better to keep them in your pocket or tucked away somewhere."

DI Edwards said he was not aware if there were gangs going around stealing the phones.

"We've arrested people in the past regarding the theft of mobile phones, but unfortunately it's never restricted to one group of youths," he said.

Police are still appealing for witnesses to the incident involving Matthew Jones on Corporation Road at 4.30pm last Friday.

The Nash College student was on his way home when he was approached by a gang of nine white youths, aged between ten and 20.

When he refused to let them use his mobile phone, he was set upon and punched and kicked. Anyone with information is asked to call Maindee CID on 01633 246999.