NAKURU, Kenya — Police in Nakuru County have arrested nine suspects during an intelligence-led operation targeting mobile phone snatching and the illegal trade in stolen devices, the National Police Service (NPS) said on Monday.
According to the police, the operation was carried out in the Shoppers Paradise business area and the Sokoni section of Kaptembwa, locations authorities identified as hotspots for the sale and modification of stolen mobile phones.
Officers said the crackdown followed intelligence reports indicating the presence of individuals dealing in stolen phones and operating equipment used to manipulate mobile device identification details.
Phones and IMEI-altering Equipment Seized
During the raid, police recovered several assorted mobile phones and electronic equipment suspected to be used for altering International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, the unique identifiers used to track mobile devices.
Among the items seized were flashing cables, specialised software devices, and accessories believed to facilitate the illegal reprogramming of phone identification systems.
Investigators say such technology is often used by criminal networks to disguise stolen devices and reintroduce them into the market, making it difficult for authorities to trace them back to their rightful owners.
“Several assorted mobile phones and electronic equipment believed to be used for flashing and altering mobile phone IMEI numbers were recovered,” the police said in a statement.
Drugs Recovered During Operation
In addition to the electronic equipment, officers also recovered sixteen rolls of bhang from the suspects during the operation.
Police did not immediately disclose the identities of the suspects but confirmed that investigations are ongoing as authorities work to establish possible links to wider networks involved in phone theft and illegal resale.
Growing Concern Over Phone Snatching
The National Police Service said petty crimes such as phone snatching have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate financial loss.
Authorities noted that victims often face disruptions in communication, potential exposure of personal data, and heightened insecurity in public spaces.
“Incidents of petty crime, such as phone snatching, often carry consequences that extend beyond the immediate loss,” the police said.
Ongoing Enforcement Efforts
Police said the operation reflects ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks involved in petty crime and protect members of the public.
Authorities emphasised that intelligence gathering, coordinated enforcement operations, and cooperation with local communities remain central to tackling mobile phone theft and related crimes.
The National Police Service added that investigations will continue as detectives pursue additional leads linked to the suspects and the seized equipment.
