Mobile phones confiscated by DCI investigators across different locations in Nairobi on March 4, 2024. Image Source: DCI.
In Summary:
- Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) seized numerous suspected stolen electronic gadgets in Nairobi.
- The crackdown on mobile phone repair shops resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals in various parts of the city.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) revealed on Tuesday, March 5, that they had confiscated a large number of suspected stolen electronic devices, including mobile phones, laptops, and tablets.
The operation, aimed at cracking down on illegal activities in mobile phone repair stalls, led to the arrest of 19 suspects across different locations within Nairobi.
According to the detectives, the surge in electronic device thefts prompted the enforcement action.
The initial raid targeted the Kamulu and Ruai areas, resulting in the recovery of 182 mobile phones, one laptop, an iPad, and two heating machines.
“In the crackdown, detectives raided Free Mack Electronic Shop and Kamale Mobile Repair in Ruai, and Friends Communication Shop in Kamulu, leading to the arrest of five suspects,” stated the detectives.
Subsequently, DCI officers proceeded to the Kamukunji area, where they recovered 19 mobile phones from two shops.
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They then moved to the Cianda market shop, confiscating an additional 10 mobile phones and arresting three suspects.
During the operation at Lang’ata’s Mobihub Planet-BIHI Towers, two suspects were apprehended with 34 suspected stolen phones.
Additionally, 8 laptops were seized at Skydeck Technologies shop by DCI Central detectives, resulting in the arrest of two suspects.
In a parallel operation, four suspects were detained in Kasarani’s Githurai 44 area, where several electronic gadgets were recovered.
On the same day, five robbers were arrested on suspicion of mugging a resident of the Matopeni area at the Mukuru kwa Njenga – Reli section, allegedly stealing a jacket and a phone valued at Ksh20,000.
“The DCI Nairobi Region Coordinator has issued a warning to phone thieves masquerading as dealers and repairers, alerting them that detectives are actively pursuing them,” emphasized the DCI detectives.
The detectives also advised legitimate vendors to exercise caution when dealing with second-hand electronics to avoid unwittingly participating in unlawful activities.