The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has made a significant arrest in Naivasha, capturing a well-known phone thief involved in a major theft ring.
On Friday, April 25, detectives caught the suspect in the act while he was showing off a collection of stolen mobile phones.
According to a statement from the DCI, the arrest took place at the suspect’s shop in the Sera Centre Building, located in Naivasha town.
Acting on reliable information, a team of detectives conducted a raid and found 27 stolen phones, a laptop, and a mobile flashing kit. This equipment is often used in the illegal trade of stolen phones.
“Naivasha detectives have apprehended a notorious figure in the illegal trade of stolen mobile phones,” the DCI announced. This arrest is a crucial step in fighting phone theft in the area.
A mobile flashing kit is typically used to install or fix the software on a mobile phone.
This process, known as “flashing,” can help solve problems like slow performance or software crashes.
However, thieves misuse this kit to bypass security features, erase personal information, and change a phone’s unique identification number, known as the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI).
When thieves flash a phone, they can remove screen locks, such as PIN codes or patterns, allowing them to access the device.
They wipe all data, including contacts and photos, making the phone seem new and untraceable. Some advanced tools can even alter the IMEI number, making it difficult for authorities to locate stolen devices. This practice is illegal in many places.
The issue of phone theft and flashing has become more common in Kenya, especially with the rise of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) smartphone financing options.
This trend is particularly evident in cities like Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisii, and Kitale, where organized theft operations have been reported.
https://x.com/DCI_Kenya/status/1915795486084063682?t=FBrM1d7IHPhRTkbp7pCqDw&s=19
