Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has cautioned Kenyans against purchasing electronic devices from sellers without a physical address.
The warning, issued on October 6th, stated that should one be found to be in possession of a stolen device, they will suffer the consequences due to be meted on the actual thief.
The DCI Twitter post read, “CAUTION!!! The Public is hereby WARNED never to buy any Electronic Gadget including Laptops, Mobile Phones, TV Sets etc from an Individual or a Dealer who has no fixed Physical Address; Identifiable trading Building/ Premises with requisite authorization documents that are conspicuously displayed including Licenses, Permits & other Local and/or National Approvals.”
The post also said the consequences of being found with such devices could result in severe penalties such as life imprisonment or even the death sentence.
If the device’s original owner met his death by malicious means, say a robbery, the person found in possession will take full responsibility unless further investigations lead to the real criminal.
The DCI adds, “Don’t buy a device of a fellow Murdered or Maimed Kenyan. When Police Forensically Investigate & find you in possession of such said devices, by the time it is established that you were not involved in the crime.”
The DCI urged Kenyans who are suspicious of your phone’s initial origin should take action and secretly report to the newest police station.
The DCI concludes, “In case of any doubt that you may be harboring any gadget of suspicious source, Please and in Confidence report at any Police Station or DCI Office.”
Always ensure you get a receipt after you purchase a device, and keep it safe in case queries about it arise.
