Police in Nairobi arrested three suspects on Sunday in an intelligence-led crackdown targeting criminal networks involved in receiving and dealing in stolen property, recovering 38 mobile phones, laptops and computer equipment.
Officers from Central Police Station, Nairobi Region, acting on intelligence, raided a stall at Platinum Plaza along Tom Mboya Street, where they arrested a suspect believed to be involved in receiving and “flashing” stolen mobile phones.
According to the National Police Service, a search of the stall uncovered 38 assorted mobile phones, three laptops and one desktop computer.
Police also intercepted two other suspects at the Imenti House car park, where they were found inside a motor vehicle.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of two Lenovo monitors, central processing units (CPUs), keyboards, cables and other computer accessories.
The equipment bore labels identifying it as property of a government institution.
Police detained the vehicle at the station as investigations continued, while the three suspects remained in custody pending arraignment.
The operation is part of efforts by police to disrupt the networks that receive, conceal and redistribute stolen goods.
“The battle does not end where property is stolen,” the police said, adding that officers were following the “intelligence trail to the receivers, dealers and other networks that create a market for stolen goods”.
Police urged members of the public to report criminal or suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
They also asked the public to share information through the toll-free numbers 999 and 911, or via the DCI’s #FichuaKwaDCI platform on 0800 722 203.Information can also be shared anonymously through WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
Investigations into the suspects and the recovered property are ongoing.