Police in Eldoret have arrested two suspects linked to a phone hacking and resale operation. The arrest followed a tip-off from the public.
On Wednesday, officers raided a phone repair shop near the Eldoret Shuttle booking office. They found the suspects flashing 28 mobile phones. Flashing is the illegal process of reprogramming phones to remove security features. Most of the recovered phones belonged to M-KOPA, a company that sells phones on credit.Police say the suspects are part of a larger network. This group targets stolen or unpaid phones, alters their data, and resells them to unsuspecting buyers.
Police seize hacking tools
Inside the shop, officers also found advanced tech equipment. They recovered two HP laptops, two CPUs, seven hard drives, a Pandora Box, a dongle, and a JTAG device. These tools can change IMEI numbers, remove credit locks, and wipe tracking data.The suspects are now held at Eldoret Police Station. Investigators are examining the seized devices and expect more arrests soon.
Public urged to report suspicious activity
In a public statement, the National Police Service (NPS) thanked citizens who shared information.
“The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and to report such illicit activities to the nearest police station or through the toll-free numbers: 999, 911, 112, and #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203),” the statement read.
Don’t Fall for cheap phones
Police also warned the public about buying suspiciously cheap mobile phones.
“The National Police Service warns the public against purchasing suspiciously cheap mobile devices from unscrupulous traders or getting involved in fraudulent activities, such as the flashing of mobile phones taken on credit to evade payment,” the NPS added.
More Action Ahead
Investigations are still underway. Police believe the racket may involve more players. They are urging the public to stay alert and avoid buying phones from unlicensed sellers.
Police warn youth in Eldoret against getting involved in phone hacking and fraud. These crimes lead to arrests and jail time. Instead, young people should pursue honest work and skills. Quick money schemes have serious consequences and hurt their future.
