By Andrew Kariuki
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested seven suspects and recovered dozens of stolen electronic devices following an intelligence-led operation targeting a mobile phone theft and resale network operating within Nairobi.
The operation was launched after a surge in complaints from city residents over increased incidents of phone snatching and theft.
A multi-agency team led by the DCI’s Operation Support Unit carried out coordinated raids in several neighbourhoods across the city.
During the crackdown, officers recovered 150 assorted mobile phones, 16 tablets and six laptops from various locations.
Among those arrested was Nambajwe Zaina, also known as Aisha Nalubanga or Zainab, a Ugandan national who was apprehended in Shauri Moyo.
Detectives recovered 75 mobile phones packed in sealed boxes and two laptops from her residence.
Investigators believe she played a central role in linking local receivers to buyers in Uganda.
One of her suspected accomplices, Kalyowo Sam, was also arrested in the same area.
Additional arrests were made in the Nairobi central business district, where James Mwangi Gachoka was detained at his shop inside Tusker House along Ronald Ngala Street.
Police recovered 19 mobile phones and 16 tablets from the premises.
At Kangemi Bus Station, Samuel Sifuna Simiyu, a loader with Starways Express, was arrested on suspicion of facilitating the transportation of stolen devices through selected bus drivers.
In Ngumba Estate, detectives arrested Abonyo Adhiambo Mourine, recovering two mobile phones and two laptops from her residence.
More phone parts were later found at her shop, Jamki Accessories, along Tom Mboya Street.
Police also arrested Kelvin Kuria Wanjeri in Thome Estate after recovering 46 assorted mobile phones from his house.
Another suspect, Mike Ngugi Mwaura, was arrested at a garage along Chogoria Road in Nairobi’s Industrial Area. Officers recovered eight mobile phones and a laptop from his vehicle.
Investigators noted that several of the recovered phones had been tampered with, including altered operating systems, factory resets, or dismantling for spare parts.
One victim, Edna Wambui from Ngando in Dagoretti, has already been traced.
Her phone was stolen while she was serving customers at a local market. She has since positively identified her device and recorded a statement with police.
The DCI said investigations are ongoing as efforts continue to dismantle the wider black-market network behind phone theft and resale in Nairobi.
