Night-time foot patrols by police in Diss have led to the arrest of two suspected thieves.

Response officers spotted two men acting suspiciously in the town during the early hours of today.

As they approached, the men fled but were quickly detained in Croft Lane and St Nicholas Street.

The pair, aged 30 and 32, were found in possession of suspected stolen property and were taken to Bury Police Investigation Centre where they remain in custody.

Foot patrols have increased in the area recently following an increase in thefts from motor vehicles.

But despite previous warnings, officers are still finding that many drivers are leaving their cars unlocked overnight with valuable items on display.

Sgt Julian Roots, of Diss Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: 'There has been a number of incidents in Diss and across south Norfolk where opportunist thieves have spotted sat navs and mobile phones inside cars and have tried the door only to find it unlocked. Needless to say these easy-pickings have then been stolen.

'Motorists can help prevent these incidents by simply locking their cars - something which takes literally seconds.

'It is also worth remembering that many insurers will not honour claims if the car was unlocked at the time of the incident.'

To avoid becoming a victim of crime motorists are advised to:

• Lock all doors and remove keys from the ignition, even if the vehicle is only being left for a minute or two.

• Remove stereos and expensive audio equipment.

• Remove sat navs and their cradles, while wiping away any marks left on the windscreen.

• Remove handbags, sunglasses, laptops and other valuables from the vehicle.

• Remove equipment and tools from the back of vans.

For further advice, visit www.norfolk.police.uk