NAIROBI, Kenya — Seven suspects have been arrested following an intelligence-led operation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which led to the recovery of more than 150 stolen electronic devices destined for Uganda.
The operation, conducted on January 23, 2026, targeted receivers of stolen mobile phones, technicians involved in illegal refurbishment, and Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators facilitating the cross-border transport of the gadgets.
According to DCI’s Operation Support Unit, the syndicate operates a lucrative black market where payments for stolen electronics are made upon delivery across the border.
Detectives recovered 150 mobile phones, 16 tablets, and six laptops during the raids.
DCI Director Mohamed Amin said some of the devices had been tampered with through flashing and factory resets, while others still contained details of their original owners.
“Some gadgets are dismantled and sold as spare parts, making them hard to trace despite ongoing investigations,” he added.
Suspects and Recoveries
- Nambajwe Zaina (aka Aisha Nalubanga or Zainab), a Ugandan national, was arrested in Shauri Moyo. Police recovered 75 mobile phones in three boxes and two laptops from her residence. She is described as the key link between local receivers and buyers in Uganda.
- Kalyowo Sam, also Ugandan, was arrested in Shauri Moyo as an accomplice of Nambajwe.
- James Mwangi Gachoka, arrested at his shop in Tusker House, had 16 tablets and 19 mobile phones. He allegedly coordinated transport of the stolen gadgets to Uganda.
- Samuel Sifuna Simiyu, a loader at Starways Express, was arrested for helping load stolen devices onto vehicles for transport.
- Abonyo Adhiambo Mourine, arrested in Ngumba Estate, had two mobile phones and two laptops. A subsequent search at her shop, Jamki Accessories, led to the recovery of 21 phone components and casings.
- Kelvin Kuria Wanjero, arrested at his Thome Estate residence, had 46 mobile phones.
- Mike Ngugi Mwaura, arrested at a garage in Industrial Area, had eight mobile phones and one laptop.
The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court as investigations continue into the wider cross-border theft and trafficking network.
Police noted that street snatchings of mobile phones have been rampant, with victims often unable to recover their gadgets.
In some cases, suspects have been caught and lynched by angry mobs, highlighting the growing security challenge. Authorities said investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
