In a concerted effort to combat the rampant theft of electronic devices, Nairobi police conducted a series of targeted operations, resulting in the seizure of numerous suspected stolen phones, laptops, and tablets.
In the operation spanning several areas of the city, law enforcement officials raided various establishments suspected of engaging in illicit activities related to the trade and repair of stolen electronic devices. Among the locations targeted were Free Mack Electronic Shop and Kamale Mobile Repair in Ruai, as well as Friends Communication Shop in Kamulu.
During these raids, a significant haul of confiscated items was recorded, totaling over 182 mobile phones, along with a laptop, iPad, and two heating machines. Additionally, in Kamukunji, detectives seized 19 suspected stolen mobile phones from Information Shops numbers 3A and 2B. Subsequent searches led to the discovery of 10 more phones at Cianda Market shop number 426. Several individuals were apprehended during these operations, including Fredrick Maina, Macnair Gedion, Robin Muturi, John Kamau Mwangi, Kelvin Kamau Njuguna, Samuel Kang’ethe, Anthony Kamau, and Kelvin Kihara.
Further crackdowns were conducted in Lang’ata, where Lynne Wambui and Paul Kamau Wainaina were arrested at Mobihub Planet-BIHI Towers with 34 suspected stolen phones. Meanwhile, DCI Central detectives seized eight laptops at Skydeck Technologies shop, leading to the apprehension of Brian Mwangi and Robert Thuo Mwangi.
The operation extended to Kasarani’s Githurai 44 area, where four additional suspects were arrested in connection with similar offenses.
Simultaneously, in a separate incident, authorities swiftly responded to a robbery in the Matopeni area, Mukuru kwa Njenga – Reli section. Five assailants, identified as Bethwel Kiprop, Shadrack Otwori, Edwin Ongori, Mike Sagero, and Collins Sigei, reportedly waylaid a local resident, stealing a jacket and an OPPO phone valued at 20 shillings. Following a rapid response by law enforcement, the suspects were apprehended mere minutes after the robbery took place.
All five individuals involved in the robbery have since been arraigned, underscoring the authorities’ commitment to swiftly address criminal activities within the city.
The crackdown on stolen electronic devices underscores the ongoing efforts by Nairobi police to curb theft and ensure the safety and security of residents. These operations serve as a warning to would-be criminals, signaling that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and proactive in combating crime across the capital.