Tunisian Police Dismantle Smartphone Theft Ring in Ariana

The Tunisian National Security units in El Menzah, under the Ariana City district, successfully dismantled a network suspected of stealing smartphones by snatching them from passersby, sometimes using violence, on Friday, November 6, 2026. The police seized numerous stolen phones whose serial numbers had been altered. This operation was the result of an investigation that began after a series of thefts targeting pedestrians in El Menzah, El Manar, Ennasr, Bab Saadoun, and Bardo.

According to the initial elements of the investigation, the suspects would stalk their victims before snatching their phones, sometimes resorting to violence. The police were able to identify the suspects and track their movements through field investigations. In coordination with the prosecutor's office, the security units searched their homes, arrested all presumed members of the network, and seized numerous devices.

The presumed members of the network would sell the stolen phones to two individuals responsible for bypassing the devices' locks and associated account protection. This duo would also install applications to disable GPS geolocation. The prosecutor's office at the Ariana Court of First Instance authorized the placement of all suspects in custody. The investigation is ongoing to determine if other individuals are involved.

The police operation was a result of increased vigilance and efforts to combat street crime in Ariana. The serial numbers of the stolen phones had been modified, making it difficult for the rightful owners to recover their devices. However, the police were able to seize the devices and bring the suspects to justice.

The dismantling of the network is a significant achievement for the Tunisian police, who have been working to reduce street crime and improve public safety. The police have been conducting regular patrols and operations to prevent and investigate crimes in the region. The suspects are currently in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

The authorities have not disclosed the exact number of suspects arrested or the number of stolen phones seized. However, they have confirmed that the operation was a success and that the investigation is ongoing to identify any potential accomplices. The police are urging anyone with information about the network or the stolen phones to come forward.

The Tunisian police have been working to improve their response to street crime and to better protect citizens and their property. This operation demonstrates their commitment to fighting crime and ensuring public safety. The authorities will continue to work to prevent and investigate crimes in the region.

Key points

• The Tunisian police dismantled a network suspected of stealing smartphones by snatching them from passersby, sometimes using violence, in several areas of Ariana.
• The police seized numerous stolen phones whose serial numbers had been altered and arrested all presumed members of the network.
• The investigation is ongoing to determine if other individuals are involved in the network.