Police recovered about 60 mobile phones after dismantling a suspected organised phone theft ring operating during a sporting event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Sunday night.
The operation followed a wave of phone snatching incidents reported by attendees during the finals between Spain and Argentina, with officers moving in after noticing a pattern in how the stolen devices were being passed among suspects.
According to eyewitness accounts, the suspected syndicate involved both men and women working together.
Victims’ phones were allegedly snatched before being quickly handed over to female accomplices, making it difficult for police and victims to identify the actual holders of the stolen devices.
Officers from the Anti-Vandalism Unit are reported to have led the operation, which resulted in the recovery of approximately 60 mobile phones.
In one case, a female suspect was allegedly found with six mobile phones concealed under her clothing, police sources said.
Authorities have urged anyone who lost a mobile phone during the event to report to KICC Police Station to identify and claim their device.
Police have not yet released details on the number of suspects arrested or whether formal charges have been filed. The circumstances surrounding the investigation remain under inquiry.
