Police in Kimilili, Bungoma County, have arrested two suspects believed to be part of a mobile phone theft and hacking network that has been affecting residents in the area.
The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation launched after several members of the public reported losing their mobile phones under suspicious circumstances.
Many victims complained that their devices had been stolen and could no longer be traced, prompting authorities to begin investigations into the growing problem.
A joint team made up of officers from Kimilili Police Station and representatives from M-Kopa Kenya Limited conducted the operation after gathering information about the suspected activities of the group.
Their investigations led them to a shop known as Jacaranda Youngers Electronics in Kimilili town. While the business appeared to operate normally, investigators suspected it was being used as a base for illegal activities linked to stolen mobile phones.
During the operation, officers arrested two men identified as Harrison Kariuki Thuku, 26, and James Gachanja Kahuria, 26. The pair were taken into custody before they could leave the premises.
Police then carried out a search inside the shop and recovered a large number of mobile phones and electronic equipment believed to have been used in the operation.
Among the items recovered were 34 M-Kopa mobile phones and 39 other smartphones of different brands.
Investigators also seized flashing tools and other equipment suspected to have been used to alter and reprogram mobile devices.
According to police, the tools were capable of wiping phone memory, changing IMEI numbers and modifying devices in ways that could make it difficult to trace their original owners.
Authorities believe the recovered equipment may have played a key role in helping the suspects disguise stolen phones before selling them on the illegal market.
The two suspects remain in police custody as investigators continue processing the case ahead of their court appearance. Police have also launched a manhunt for other individuals believed to be connected to the syndicate and who remain at large.
Meanwhile, all the recovered phones and equipment have been secured as exhibits.
The devices will be subjected to further examination by cyber forensic experts, who will work to establish their origin and help identify their rightful owners.
Police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities as investigations continue.
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