Police in Nairobi have arrested five suspects accused of stealing mobile phones from members of the public during a political rally at Jacaranda grounds in Starehe Sub-County.
The arrests were made on the evening of Saturday, October 31, 2026, after officers conducted an operation at the grounds, where the suspects allegedly took advantage of the gathering to target unsuspecting people attending the political event.
According to the National Police Service, the suspects were arrested during a swift operation after allegedly using the rally as an opportunity to steal from members of the public.
A search conducted shortly after their arrest led to the recovery of eight mobile phones believed to have been stolen from people attending the gathering. The handsets were taken by the officers and secured as exhibits as investigations into the incident continued.
The five suspects were placed in police custody as they awaited arraignment in court. Police did not immediately provide further details about the identities of the suspects or whether other people could be involved in the alleged theft.
The incident has drawn attention to the security challenges that can arise during large public gatherings, where criminals may take advantage of crowded spaces to steal personal belongings from unsuspecting attendees.
Political rallies often attract large numbers of people, creating busy environments in which it can be difficult for individuals to keep track of their belongings. Mobile phones are among the items targeted by thieves because they can be taken quickly in crowded areas.
In its statement, the National Police Service warned criminal groups against using political gatherings as an opportunity to commit offences.
The service maintained that such events should not become grounds for theft, harassment or other criminal activities targeting members of the public.
Police also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining law and order during lawful public gatherings across the country.
They said officers would continue taking action against individuals suspected of engaging in criminal activities during such events.
Members of the public have been urged to remain alert whenever they attend political rallies and other crowded gatherings. The police advised anyone who notices suspicious individuals or activities to report the matter promptly to the nearest police post or station.
The service also encouraged members of the public to remain aware of their surroundings and take care of their personal belongings while attending public events.
The recovery of the eight mobile phones is expected to form part of the evidence in the case as police continue handling the suspects ahead of their expected court appearance.
