Police in Nakuru have arrested nine persons of interest in an intelligence-led operation targeting mobile phone snatchers and those involved in selling stolen devices at Shoppers Paradise and the Sokoni area of Kaptembwa, following reports of individuals dealing in stolen mobile phones.

Confirming the arrests on their social media accounts on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) pointed out that petty crimes, like stealing mobile phones, can have an impact on the immediate loss.

Nine persons of interest were arrested with several assorted mobile phones and electronic equipment in their possession, believed to be used for flashing and altering mobile phone IMEI numbers. The seized items included flashing cables, specialised software devices, and other accessories suspected to facilitate the illegal alteration of mobile phone identification details,” the NPS noted in a statement.

The NPS further confirmed that the confiscated goods were specialised software equipment, flash cables and other accessories that were suspected to be used to illegally manipulate mobile phone identification information.

Police also recovered narcotics

Moreover, the persons of interest had sixteen rolls of bhang that were recovered by the officers, which also shows the extent of criminal activity that was intercepted during the raid.

“Additionally, officers recovered a total of sixteen rolls of bhang from the persons of interest,” the NPS statement added.

The National Police Service has stressed that the operation is an extension of its efforts to destroy networks that make money by committing petty offences and shielding the community against their effects.

With the continuous intelligence collection, organised enforcement, and community involvement, the National Police Service is still aiming at discouraging such crimes and seeing to it that the offenders are taken to court.

According to the National Police Service, the arrests have highlighted the continued threat posed by the criminal gangs, which significantly undermines security in the area.

The police further confirmed that the 9 were taken into police custody as they await arraignment.

In addition, the officers have said they secured the items that will be used as exhibits to support further investigations.