Cyberabad police have recovered 1,061 stolen and lost smartphones within 45 days, collectively worth Rs 3.2 crore, using the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) system under the Department of Telecommunications’ Sanchar Saathi portal. The recovered devices were formally returned to their owners during a ceremony at the Cyberabad Police Commissioner’s Office on Thursday, October 16, 2025. This marks the ninth phase of the city’s organised mobile recovery operations.
How the phones were traced
The CEIR system allows police to trace phones using the device’s IMEI number once it is reported on the portal. When a user files a complaint on the Sanchar Saathi/CEIR portal or at a local police station, the IMEI is blocked to prevent reuse. Once traced and seized, the device can be unblocked and returned to the rightful owner, preventing resale and misuse of personal data.
Police details on the operation
DCP Crimes A. Muthyam Reddy said the recovered phones included 240 from Madhapur, 188 from Balanagar, 195 from Medchal, 233 from Rajendranagar and 205 from Shamshabad. He urged citizens to promptly report missing or stolen devices without delay, stressing that phones often contain banking details, personal data and credentials, making early blocking critical to limit fraud and identity theft.
He also advised the public to be alert to cybercrime and avoid unverified links or suspicious messages, and to contact the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in to report fraud.
Why reporting matters
ADCP (Crimes) K. Ram Kumar said mobile theft and resale networks are increasing, but CEIR has become an effective deterrent. Once the IMEI of a stolen phone is blocked, the black-market value collapses, reducing incentive for theft. He noted that recovered devices can be unblocked and restored for use once handed back.
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