A Romanian man has been jailed for seven months after admitting to stealing an iPhone 6 from Havana nightclub in Paceville.

Lucian Grecu, 33, admitted to the theft of the phone at around 2am on June 27.

Magistrate Ian Farrugia noted that theft of mobile phones and other personal belongings from clubs in St Julian's and Paceville has become "a phenomenon", with hundreds of people falling victim to such crimes.

"The message should be very clear to anybody found guilty of such crimes against innocent people who only intend going out for a night of fun. Consequently, the punishment must be one that coveys a clear message," the magistrate said.

On the other hand, the magistrate noted Mr Grecu's early guilty plea, the fact that he had cooperated with the police and immediately admitted the theft. He had also helped the police retrieve the expensive mobile phone from his accomplice, who is facing separate criminal proceedings.

Magistrate Farrugia therefore sentenced Mr Grecu to seven months of effective prison time.

Police Inspectors John Spiteri and Matthew Spagnol prosecuted.