Victoria Police detectives are warning the public to be cautious after two women were robbed at knifepoint near Mayfair mall on Friday afternoon.
The women, aged 19 and 22, were approached by a woman who asked for the time.
When one of the victims pulled out her cellphone, the suspect produced a large knife and demanded the phones and cash.
The robbery was interrupted by a bus pulling up to the curb, but the suspect still made off with makeup, rings and cash, police said.
VicPD detectives believe the incident may be related to a similar robbery of two 11-year-old girls near Hillside mall Nov. 14.
Police are warning the public to be aware of their surroundings when using personal electronic devices.
The suspect is described as 5'2 to 5'3, in her early-20s with a slim build and dyed blonde hair with a blue streak.
She had a silver stud in her nose and blue or green eyes, police said.
Anyone with information on the crimes is asked to contact VicPD at 250-995-7654 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
dpalmer@vicnews.com