At least six suspects were arrested in Nairobi during a police operation targeting a network believed to be behind a series of mobile phone thefts across the city. During the crackdown, law enforcement officers recovered hundreds of stolen mobile phones and more than Sh600,000 in cash, suspected to be proceeds of the criminal activities.
The mobile phones, which had been stolen from various parts of Nairobi, are collectively valued at Sh3 million. Authorities indicated that the suspects may be part of a wider syndicate that specializes in stealing and reselling mobile phones, often after reconfiguring them to make tracing difficult. Investigations into the matter are still ongoing, with police pursuing additional suspects believed to be connected to the crime.
The suspects were apprehended following intelligence-led operations carried out in different parts of the city. Officers involved in the operation reported that the stolen phones were found in large quantities, some already tampered with in an attempt to erase identifying data. Police suspect that the reprogrammed devices were intended for resale to unsuspecting buyers both locally and in neighboring countries.
Senior law enforcement officials involved in the operation warned members of the public against buying second-hand mobile phones from unverified sources. They emphasized that the purchase of stolen devices not only fuels the criminal trade but also places buyers at risk of arrest and prosecution. Officers further highlighted that some of the stolen gadgets had been linked to violent robberies, including incidents that resulted in serious injuries or death.
In recent years, mobile phone theft in Nairobi has become increasingly common, with most of the perpetrators using motorcycles to snatch gadgets from unsuspecting pedestrians. This tactic allows them to make quick getaways, often disappearing into traffic or slum areas where tracing them becomes difficult.
Authorities are urging victims of phone theft to report the incidents immediately. They said timely reporting increases the chances of recovery and helps in tracking criminal patterns. Law enforcement agencies also reiterated the importance of safeguarding mobile phone IMEI numbers, which can be used to trace stolen devices when necessary.
According to police, this latest operation is part of a broader campaign to combat rising cases of mobile phone theft and violent crime in urban areas. The effort involves collaboration between various units, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and local patrol teams.
In previous similar operations, suspects have faced charges ranging from handling stolen property to more severe offenses like robbery with violence and even murder. In several cases, it was revealed that victims were attacked during the thefts, resulting in grave injuries or fatalities. This has raised concerns about the growing boldness of the criminals and the level of violence employed in their operations.
Authorities pledged to continue with the crackdown and bring all those involved in the syndicate to justice. They are also working to dismantle networks involved in the smuggling of stolen gadgets to regional markets.
The operation has drawn praise from sections of the public, who say the theft of mobile phones has become a daily threat, particularly in busy areas like downtown Nairobi, public transport hubs, and markets. Residents are hopeful that sustained police efforts will help curb the menace and restore a sense of safety on the streets.
