By Lauryne Akoth
Hundreds of suspected stolen mobile phones and other electronic gadgets have been recovered by detectives across the Nairobi region, in an epic crackdown on electronic theft.
According to detectives, the arrested suspects have been conducting their operations in suspicious phone repair stalls.
Over 182 mobile phones, a laptop, iPad, and two heating machines were seized in Ruai and Kamulu areas, in the region-wide operation conducted on 4th March, when detectives stormed Free Mack Electronic Shop, Kamale Mobile Repair in Ruai, & Friends Communication Shop in Kamulu.
The intelligence-led operation led to the arrest of five suspects namely, Fredrick Maina, Macnair Gedion, Robin Muturi, John Kamau Mwangi, and Kelvin Kamau Njuguna. Three more suspects were apprehended in Kamukunji where detectives confiscated 29 suspected stolen mobile phones.
Kang’ethe, Anthony Kamau & Kelvin Kihara were arrested in Kamukunji shops nos. 3A and 2B, and in Cianda Market shop No.426 respectively.
The investigation expanded to Lang’ata, leading to the apprehension of Lynne Wambui and Paul Kamau Wainaina at Mobihub Planet-BIHI Towers. DCI Central detectives seized 34 suspected stolen phones, along with 8 laptops, at Skydeck Technologies shop during the operation.
Brian Mwangi & Robert Thuo Mwangi did not escape DCI’s reach as they were found in possession of the stolen laptops. DCI further added that four additional suspects were arrested in Kasarani’s Githurai 44 area in a similar operation.
The diligent detectives did not tire as they apprehended five assailants who ambushed a resident in the Matopeni area at Mukuru kwa Njenga Reli section. The perpetrators, responsible for robbing the victim of a jacket and an OPPO phone valued at Sh20k, were captured by Embakasi police.