Directorate of Criminal Investigations Recovers Over Two Hundred Stolen Mobile Devices in Trans Nzoia Intelligence Operation

Kenya's DCI arrests two suspects in Trans Nzoia, recovering 213 stolen mobile phones and reprogramming equipment during an intelligence-led raid in Lessos.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 23, 2026, 4:50 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from TUKO.co.ke

Coordinated Raid Targets Sophisticated Electronic Theft Hub in Lessos

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have successfully dismantled a suspected mobile phone theft syndicate operating within Trans Nzoia County. Acting on high-level intelligence, officers from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau conducted a targeted raid on a residence situated near the Airport Church in the Lessos area. The operation, which was executed on Sunday, March 22, 2026, was supported by personnel from the Matisi Police Station. This intervention is part of a broader national strategy to address the rising incidence of organized electronic crime and the illegal resale of personal communication devices.

Arrest of Key Suspects and Seizure of Specialized Reprogramming Hardware

During the course of the afternoon raid, law enforcement officials apprehended Silas Wanjala, aged 24, and Job Kiberenge Sikuku, aged 28. In addition to the arrests, search teams recovered a vast inventory of 213 assorted mobile phones of various makes and models. Notably, detectives also seized a Pandora machine, a specialized piece of hardware frequently utilized by criminal networks to bypass security protocols and reprogram stolen devices for resale. Three HP laptops were also confiscated at the scene, suggesting that the location served as a central technical hub for the syndicate's regional operations.

Forensic Analysis Commences to Trace Original Owners of Stolen Devices

The Directorate has confirmed that all recovered items have been secured as formal exhibits and will undergo rigorous forensic analysis. Investigators are currently working to establish the specific sources of the 213 devices, with the goal of identifying the original owners and linking the hardware to reported theft cases across the country. This data-driven approach is intended to provide the necessary evidence to map the full extent of the network's reach. The DCI has indicated that the ongoing investigation aims to uncover additional members of the criminal ring who may still be active in other jurisdictions.