Mobile phone robberies on Victorian streets spike

Statistics obtained by 9NEWS have revealed a rise in mobile phone robberies across Victoria.

The figures are broken down according to the location where they occur - revealing a jump in offenders targeting public transport, public parks, streets and footpaths.

Watch the video above for the full story.

The biggest increase is in streets and footpaths.

Police believe these crimes are committed at random - thieves don't necessarily pick particular people as targets.

It’s a crime that can be committed very quickly - in a matter of seconds – with offenders snatching a phone and fleeing.

Unfortunately, some robberies have turned violent when the victim resists and refuses to hand over their phone.