Police officers have arrested a suspected phone snatcher and recovered seven suspected stolen mobile phones during a targeted operation in the Mbuthia area of Huruma, Nairobi County.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, October 18, 2026, by officers from Huruma Police Station, forms part of ongoing efforts by the National Police Service to combat phone theft and dismantle criminal networks involved in electronic device theft.
According to the police, the suspect was arrested following an operation targeting individuals suspected of engaging in phone-snatching activities in the area.
A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of seven mobile phones of different brands, which police believe could be stolen property.
The suspect was subsequently escorted to Huruma Police Station, where he was placed in custody pending further processing and arraignment in court.
The recovered mobile phones have been secured as exhibits to support investigations into the alleged criminal activities.
Police did not immediately disclose the identities of the phone owners or provide details on when and where the devices were allegedly stolen.
Investigations are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the recovery and determine whether the suspect could be linked to other reported cases of mobile phone theft in the area.
Phone snatching remains a concern in parts of Nairobi, where criminals target pedestrians and commuters, often taking advantage of crowded streets and busy public spaces to steal mobile devices.
The recovery of the seven phones could help investigators trace their rightful owners and establish whether the devices are connected to a wider theft network.
The National Police Service has reiterated its commitment to combating criminal activities and enhancing public safety through intelligence-led operations and cooperation with members of the public.
Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency and crime-reporting channels.
Members of the public can contact the police through the toll-free emergency numbers 999 and 911. They can also report information to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations through the Fichua Kwa DCI hotline on 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
The police say timely information from the public remains important in helping officers identify suspects, recover stolen property and prevent further criminal activities.
The suspect is expected to face court proceedings following the completion of the investigations.
