Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested two men linked to a sophisticated stolen mobile phone syndicate operating in Runda.
The late-night raid uncovered a large cache of stolen electronics at a shop masquerading as a cosmetic store, highlighting the scale of organized crime targeting residents in Nairobi’s affluent areas.
The operation, coordinated by the DCI Operations Action Team (OAT) alongside officers from DCI Gigiri and Runda Police Station, followed credible intelligence pointing to a covert hub for stolen devices at “E7 Cosmetics” in Githogoro.
Investigators found two adult males inside the shop, later identified as Tobias Oduor and Nickson Indasia, who claimed ownership of the business.
A detailed search quickly revealed the true nature of the premises. Officers recovered 65 fully functional mobile phones, seven laptops, and 52 dismantled mobile phones, suggesting the syndicate either resold the devices or stripped them for parts. The scale of the haul indicated a structured operation exploiting the black market for stolen electronics.
When questioned about the origins of the items, the suspects failed to provide credible explanations, further implicating them in the criminal trade. Among the recovered devices, one phone was confirmed as violently snatched from a victim at Ruaka stage, linking the suspects directly to previous theft incidents.
All items were carefully catalogued and secured as investigators work to map the broader network. Authorities describe the arrests as a major breakthrough in combating organized crime and safeguarding the public from predatory networks. The suspects remain in custody and are expected to be formally arraigned on charges of theft and possession of stolen property.
Officials noted that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying other members of the syndicate and tracing the movement of stolen electronics. “We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could aid law enforcement,” a DCI spokesperson said. Citizens can provide information anonymously through the toll-free line 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
The raid underscores the growing challenge posed by black-market trading in stolen electronics, which is often linked to violent thefts, fraud, and complex criminal networks. By targeting such operations, the DCI aims to disrupt illicit activity and prevent further victimisation of Nairobi residents.
This operation is part of broader, intelligence-driven efforts by Kenyan law enforcement to tackle organized crime in areas with high-value devices. Authorities stress the importance of coordinated actions and community participation in ensuring that criminal networks are dismantled and that those involved are held accountable.
