Uganda Arrest Uncovers East African Stolen Phone Trafficking Network Involving Kenya and DR Congo
A Congolese suspect's arrest in Uganda reveals a cross-border stolen phone syndicate moving devices from Uganda to DR Congo, linked to Kenya's black market.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 22, 2026
2 min read
Authorities in Uganda and Kenya have disrupted a regional network trafficking stolen mobile phones across East Africa, with recent arrests exposing the syndicate's operations spanning Uganda, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Arrest in Uganda Reveals Cross-Border Phone Theft Ring
On August 20, Ugandan police apprehended Justine Kulimushi, a 34-year-old Congolese national, in Nansana, Wakiso District. According to Kampala Metropolitan Police, Kulimushi was involved in acquiring stolen phones from Kampala, resetting or flashing them to erase traces, and then transporting them to markets in the DRC for resale.
Investigations began after an iPhone worth approximately UGX 3 million (about KSh 104,450) was reported stolen in April 2026 in Nansana. Tracking the device led authorities to Kalungi Plaza in Kampala and further to Beni in the DRC, revealing a pattern of illicit phone movement across borders.
Police recovered 27 second-hand phones of various brands during Kulimushi's arrest. Ongoing inquiries aim to identify the original owners and dismantle the broader network facilitating this cross-border trade.
Kenya’s Role in the Stolen Phone Trade
This case follows earlier police operations in Nairobi where two individuals were arrested in January 2026 with over 900 stolen mobile phones, tablets, and laptops. These items were destined for Uganda, highlighting Kenya’s position as a key node in the regional stolen phone market.
Further raids in Nairobi led to the arrest of several suspects connected to the syndicate, including individuals handling logistics and distribution. Police recovered hundreds of stolen devices from various locations, illustrating the scale of the operation.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling phone theft and illicit resale networks throughout Kenya, although the problem persists in major urban centers.
Persistent Challenge Across East Africa
The cross-border stolen phone trade remains a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies in East Africa. The syndicate’s ability to move stolen devices across Uganda, Kenya, and the DRC complicates efforts to curb the black market.
Authorities continue to collaborate regionally to dismantle these networks and recover stolen property, aiming to protect consumers and reduce crime linked to mobile device theft.
