NAIROBI, Kenya May 9 -The National Police Service has arrested a suspected member of a notorious phone hacking and illegal device unlocking syndicate during an intelligence-led operation in Oyugis Township, Homa Bay County.
In a statement, the police said the operation was conducted by officers from Oyugis Police Station following extensive investigations into a criminal network linked to mobile phone theft, unauthorized device unlocking and hacking activities targeting businesses, particularly mobile device financing companies.
According to the police, the syndicate is suspected of stealing mobile phones and manipulating software systems to bypass payment requirements imposed by companies that offer financed smartphones to customers.
“The operation followed the receipt of credible information and extensive investigations that linked the suspects to illegal activities involving the theft of mobile phones, unauthorised flashing and unlocking of devices, and manipulation of mobile systems with the intention of defrauding businesses,” the statement said.
During the raid, officers recovered 20 mobile phones believed to have been stolen, a laptop equipped with flashing and hacking tools, a CM2 Dongle, and two external hard drives allegedly containing software used in illegal unlocking and hacking operations.
Police described the arrested suspect as a key player in the syndicate and said he remains in custody pending further investigations and arraignment in court.
The crackdown comes amid growing concern over the rise in mobile phone-related cybercrime, with authorities warning that illegal unlocking and hacking operations are increasingly being used to defeat security and payment systems installed on financed devices.
The National Police Service said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members linked to the criminal network.
