A major phone theft syndicate operating in the heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District has been dismantled in a police operation that exposed how stolen gadgets are finding their way back into the hands of unsuspecting buyers.
In the intelligence-led operation conducted by officers from the Central Police Station, detectives arrested Victor Kimani, a suspected mastermind behind the racket.
Kimani was caught red-handed in the CBD while altering the IMEI numbers of stolen phones, a common tactic used to wipe out a phone's identity and make it nearly impossible to trace.
After brief interrogations, Kimani led officers to Intermark Business Centre, a location believed to be a key hub for the illegal operations. There, police apprehended two more suspects, Marvine Wangundo and Jeremiah Njoroge, believed to be part of the syndicate.
A search of the premises uncovered a cache of electronics: 36 Samsung phones, 23 Vivo phones, six M-Kopa Samsung phones, two M-Kopa Nokia phones, and other brands including Nokia, LG, Tecno, Motorola, and HMD.
Many of the phones were found stripped of their back covers, an indication they had either been tampered with or were in the process of being repackaged for resale.
Detectives also recovered desktop computers, Dell and HP CPUs, and motherboards, including two Vivo boards, all believed to be linked to phone refurbishment and illegal trade.
PHONE HEIST RING BUSTED IN NAIROBI CBD, DOZENS OF STOLEN DEVICES RECOVERED
— DCI KENYA (@DCI_Kenya) August 6, 2025
In an intelligence-led operation, officers from the Central Police Station have arrested Victor Kimani, a key suspect linked to a notorious phone theft syndicate operating within Nairobi’s Central… pic.twitter.com/dKdbb3CtYK
The suspects are currently in custody as police finalise investigations, but this incident is just one of many that have exposed the dark underbelly of Kenya’s electronics market.
In the past, similar crackdowns have uncovered how stolen phones are reintroduced into the market, often through unscrupulous dealers, informal repair shops, or online listings.
For many buyers, the allure of a bargain comes at the cost of unknowingly purchasing stolen property, which can later be blacklisted or confiscated.
Buy phones from authorised dealers only
Following the bust, authorities have reiterated the importance of purchasing electronics only from licensed retailers. With phone theft cases on the rise, victims are not only losing expensive devices but also sensitive personal data.
As the e-commerce space continues to expand, Kenyans are encouraged to do due diligence before purchasing gadgets online.
While platforms like Ovostore Kenya, Jumia, Kilimall, Jiji, and Pigiame offer convenience and variety, police are warning against using platforms or sellers without clear return policies, official guarantees, or traceable records.
Ovostore Kenya
Ovostore Kenya prides itself in being a leading online shopping destination in kenya that brings you great deals, promising clients of an effortless hassle-free and convenient shopping experience.
The platform provides user-friendly website allows customers to find electronics they they need with a simple keyword brand search of the product.
Jumia
Jumia, accessible at www.jumia.co.ke, is one of the largest and most well-known online shopping platforms in Kenya. Jumia users praise its reliability, secure payment processing, and swift delivery of goods.
Jumia offers a wide range of products, including cutting-edge electronics and everyday groceries. When buying electronics, always check the seller's rating and the number of products sold to ensure credibility.
Kilimall
Kilimall, available at www.kilimall.co.ke, is another strong competitor in the online shopping space. Known as the primary supplier of Cubot mobile phones in Kenya, Kilimall offers a diverse catalog of products. This platform is popular for its extensive selection and reliable service.
Jiji
Formerly known as OLX, Jiji can be found at www.jiji.co.ke. Jiji's extensive product offerings include foodstuffs, electronics, motor vehicles, and more. The platform is particularly noted for facilitating the buying and selling of second-hand items, making it a great place to find affordable phones while promoting sustainability.
Pigiame
Pigiame, accessible through https://www.pigiame.co.ke, focuses on both new and second-hand items, primarily electronics and vehicles. Over time, Pigiame has built a reputation as a reliable platform for these categories, offering a range of options for budget-conscious shoppers.
Experts recommend the following tips to stay safe:
Research sellers thoroughly: Check reviews and ratings to ensure credibility. Avoid those with no verified track record.
Compare prices cautiously: Extremely low prices could indicate the product is stolen or defective.
Insist on documentation: Demand a receipt or warranty for every electronic item purchased.
Confirm IMEI Numbers: Ask for the device’s IMEI and cross-check on platforms like ntsa.go.ke or stolenphonechecker.com.
Use secure payments: Opt for recognised payment gateways that offer buyer protection.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are also calling on mobile phone dealers and service providers to be more proactive in flagging suspicious IMEI alterations and discouraging backdoor refurbishing practices.