# Buenos Aires mobile phone theft crackdown

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/buenos-aires-mobile-phone-theft-crackdown
> Updated: 2026-08-19T17:42:09.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 2.

Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri has implemented new regulations to combat the trade of stolen mobile phones by declaring a 90-day emergency period for the sector. The decree mandates the creation of a traceability registry for the commercialization and repair of used devices.

In designated ‘High Criticality Zones,’ the city will suspend new authorizations for mobile repair shops. Existing businesses are required to prove the legitimate origin of all phones, parts, and components in their inventory. The Government Agency of Control and the Ministry of Security are conducting coordinated inspections to enforce these rules.

Enforcement operations in the Once neighborhood have already resulted in the closure of 10 commercial premises and one gallery. During these raids, officials seized 75 mobile phones, including various brands, that were confirmed to have active theft reports, along with illegal spare parts and tools.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Jorge Macri implements new controls on used cell phones in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri has declared a 90-day emergency to tighten controls on used cell phone sales and repairs to combat the trafficking of stolen devices.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jorge-macri-implements-new-controls-on-used-cell-phones-in-buenos-aires

### 2026-08-17: Buenos Aires cracks down on stolen phone trade in Once

Buenos Aires has declared a 90-day emergency to combat the stolen phone mafia, resulting in the closure of 10 shops and the seizure of 75 devices in the Once neighborhood.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/argentine-municipalities-expand-community-health-and-prevention-programs

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Cite as: Buenos Aires mobile phone theft crackdown. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/buenos-aires-mobile-phone-theft-crackdown