Stolen Phones Worth Over Rwf 90 Million Recovered in Seven Months

RIB Recovers Hundreds of Stolen Phones

Rwanda Investigation Bureau recovered 431 stolen phones between May and November this year. The devices are worth Rwf 94.5 million. Investigators also arrested 23 suspects during the same period. Prosecutors received the case files soon after the arrests.

Phones Returned During Press Briefing

On Monday, December 1, the bureau held a press briefing to return the phones to their owners. Staff handed back the devices in front of journalists and beneficiaries. The value of each phone depended on its model.

Common Methods Used to Steal Phones

RIB spokesperson Thierry Murangira explained how thieves operated. He urged the public to stay alert. Thieves stole 127 phones at bus stops and inside buses. They also seized 80 phones in dark areas, often at night.

ALSO READ: AI Search Is Shifting the Metrics That Matter Most

Crowded places such as markets, bars and weddings created more chances for theft. Some criminals even targeted homes and small neighbourhood gatherings.

Theft Hotspots and Recovery Locations

Investigators recovered phones from several districts across the country. However, Kigali recorded most theft cases. Areas such as Nyabugogo, Kimisagara, Nyabisindu and Kanombe appeared most frequently in the reports.

More Phones Still Missing

Murangira said that many phones remain missing. Investigators continue to trace them. He encouraged victims to report cases quickly to support ongoing recovery efforts.

Victims Recount Their Experiences

Several beneficiaries expressed joy after receiving their phones. One student, Bella Murebwayire, lost hers a year ago during an exam. She placed her bag at the front of the room before the test. A thief removed the device from the bag without anyone noticing. She said she had lost all hope until RIB contacted her.

Another victim, Blandine Mukabunani from Kimisagara, lost her phone in April while on a taxi-moto. She filed a report the same day at the RIB Nyarugenge branch. Last week, investigators informed her that they had recovered it. She described the moment as exciting and unexpected.

Total Phone Recoveries This Year

RIB has recovered 763 phones since January. The total includes 332 phones seized on May 15 worth more than Rwf 72.8 million. Investigators continue to track stolen devices and urge the public to report incidents without delay.