Police Warn Kenyans Against Mobile Phone Flashing to Evade Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Payments
The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning to Kenyans using mobile phones purchased through the ‘Lipa Mdogo Mdogo’ credit scheme, cautioning against tampering with the devices to avoid repayment. The alert, issued Friday morning, follows a surge in cases of individuals flashing mobile phones to bypass payment obligations.
In a statement released on May 29, 2025, the NPS raised concerns over the increasing number of cases involving the flashing of credit-based mobile phones. Flashing refers to the illegal alteration of a phone’s software to remove payment restrictions or tracking, allowing users to default on scheduled installments.
“The public is warned against purchasing suspiciously cheap mobile devices from unscrupulous traders or getting involved in fraudulent activities, such as the flashing of mobile phones taken on credit,” the police statement read. Citizens were further urged to remain alert and report such activities through the nearest police station or via toll-free numbers: 999, 911, or 112.
The warning comes in the wake of a police operation in Eldoret Town, Uasin Gishu County, that led to the arrest of two suspects allegedly involved in a phone hacking and resale syndicate. Acting on a public tip-off, officers conducted an impromptu raid at a phone repair shop where the suspects were caught flashing 28 assorted mobile phones — including several acquired through the ‘Lipa Mdogo Mdogo’ credit plan.
A police report revealed that the suspects were found using advanced electronic equipment to manipulate the devices. Items recovered from the shop included two laptops, two CPUs, seven hard drives, one Pandora box, one dongle, and a Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) device — all believed to be used for altering IMEI numbers, reprogramming phones, and bypassing embedded security measures.
Authorities believe the suspects are part of a broader syndicate targeting mobile phones obtained either fraudulently or through financing plans. The two are currently in custody at Eldoret Police Station, where they are assisting detectives with forensic investigations ahead of their arraignment in court.
As investigations continue, the NPS has emphasized the importance of public cooperation in curbing digital and financial fraud. Potential buyers are advised to exercise caution when purchasing mobile devices and to avoid dealings with vendors offering unusually low prices. The crackdown signals a broader effort by law enforcement to dismantle illegal operations that exploit credit-based consumer services.
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Police Warn Kenyans Against Mobile Phone Flashing to Evade Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Payments