Suspected phone hacker arrested in Homa Bay

Police have arrested a suspected phone hacker in Homa Bay county following an intelligence-led operation targeting a criminal syndicate linked to mobile phone theft, illegal device unlocking and system manipulation.

The operation was conducted by officers from Oyugis Police Station under the National Police Service in Oyugis Township, where investigators had been tracking individuals believed to be part of a wider network involved in mobile phone-related fraud.

Police said the suspect is believed to be a key player in a syndicate that has been targeting stolen mobile phones, illegally flashing devices and bypassing security systems used by mobile device financing companies.

"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," a statement by the National Police Service (NPS) stated.

Authorities say the group’s activities have raised concern among law enforcement agencies and businesses, particularly those offering phone credit or financing services, which rely on device locking systems to ensure repayment compliance.

During the raid, officers recovered several items believed to have been used in the illegal operations. These included multiple mobile phones suspected to have been stolen, a laptop fitted with specialised flashing and hacking tools, a CM2 dongle, and two external hard drives containing device manipulation software. The CM2 dongle is commonly used in mobile phone servicing and unlocking.

"One suspect, believed to be a key player in the syndicate, was arrested and placed in police custody pending further investigations and arraignment in court," the authorities added.

Police have urged members of the public to support ongoing security operations by reporting suspicious activity through official channels.

The operation comes weeks after police officers from Eldoret Police Station arrested an individual suspected of engaging in phone hacking by allegedly erasing stolen phone’s operating system or memory to prevent tracking and recovery.

The National Police Service (NPS) said the suspect was arrested during an operation conducted in the Kimumu area, Turbo Subcounty, Uasin Gishu County. Officers allegedly recovered 13 phones and five laptops suspected of being used for flashing phones at the suspect’s house.

“During the operation, officers apprehended the male suspect at his residence. A search conducted at the premises led to the recovery of 13 assorted mobile phones suspected to be stolen, five HP laptops equipped with flashing tools, and flashing software believed to have been used in unlawful activities,” the police said.