A police operation in Kisumu’s Central Business District has uncovered a collection of mobile phones, accessories and tools suspected to have been used in dismantling handsets. Detectives say the raid could help expose a wider network involved in handling stolen devices as investigations continue.

Highlights

• Two suspects were arrested during a Kisumu CBD operation.
• Police recovered new and old mobile phones from two shops.
• Investigators found tools used to remove phone components.
• Authorities are tracing missing phone parts and possible suppliers.
• Police are also investigating a separate deadly incident in Muhoroni.

Main Story

Kisumu detectives recover phones during CBD raid

Detectives in Kisumu have recovered several mobile phones and equipment believed to have been used to strip down handsets during an operation targeting suspected stolen phone dealings.

According to Kisumu County DCI boss Stephen Ambani, officers launched the operation after receiving reports concerning stolen mobile phones.

Two people were arrested during the raid, after which detectives conducted a detailed search of the premises and recovered a variety of devices.

Police investigate missing phone parts

Among the items found were tools used to dismantle mobile phones and remove internal components such as motherboards.

Ambani said the equipment recovered would help investigators determine how the phones were being processed and whether the shops were connected to a larger supply chain.

Detectives noted that many of the recovered devices appeared to be relatively new, while some lacked important internal parts.

Investigators are now working with technical experts to establish where the missing components went and how the devices ended up at the shops.

Public urged to identify recovered devices

Authorities have asked residents who have lost their phones to visit DCI Kisumu Central offices and check whether their devices are among those recovered.

Ambani said failure by victims to report stolen phones often makes it difficult for police to match recovered devices with their rightful owners.

He also warned individuals supplying stolen phones to such businesses that investigations would continue beyond the arrested suspects.

Residents have been encouraged to report theft cases early to support police efforts in tracking stolen property.

Muhoroni deaths remain under investigation

The DCI official also gave an update on a separate incident in Muhoroni where three people lost their lives while two others were admitted to hospital in critical condition.

Ambani said investigators were still working to establish the identities of those involved and determine the events that led to the incident.

He cautioned against making conclusions about the nature of the incident before investigations are completed.

Police are also looking into concerns surrounding groups of young people using the name “Gungs”, with Ambani warning that involvement in criminal activities could lead to legal consequences.

He called on young people to pursue legitimate opportunities and urged Kisumu residents to continue sharing information that can assist law enforcement agencies.

Every recovered phone tells a story and with the right investigations, those stories can help uncover the networks behind crime.