White Night patrons urged not to visibly display valuables such as phones

White Night patrons are being urged to be cautious this weekend.

Recent rampages and brawls involving gangs of youths across Melbourne have sparked security fears leading into this weekend’s all-night arts festival.

Previously, most warnings about White Night were about how to navigate through large crowds.

This year, however, police are warning people heading into the city not to visibly display valuables such as phones.

It comes after dozens of youths of African appearance assaulted and robbed people at the Summersault Festival at Caroline Springs on Saturday in scenes similar to those that marred last year’s Moomba Festival. 

Dozens of phones were also stolen in the city on New Years Eve.

Police say they will maintain a strong presence throughout the event.

White Night, which was first held in Melbourne in 2013, will take place on Saturday, February 18, running until 7am.

The event features lighting, exhibitions, street performances, film, music, dance, and interactive events.