Cyprus Times

Man Travels 5,000 km to Retrieve Stolen iPhone

Published February 14, 2026, 09:12
Man Travels 5,000 km to Retrieve Stolen iPhone

A young man from Germany, Yassine, undertook an incredible journey of 5,000 kilometers to Senegal to recover his stolen iPhone. After activating the device's tracking function, he discovered its location in Africa and decided to take action. He appealed to his Instagram followers for support to fund the trip, setting a goal of 10,000 likes. The goal was quickly surpassed, reaching 30,000 likes, giving him the 'green light'. Following a stop in Brussels, he arrived in Dakar. Despite warnings about the danger of the area where the phone was located and the police's inability to help without a precise address, with the help of a local, he found the mobile phone store employee allegedly involved in the case. The employee initially denied any involvement, but eventually, under the threat of reporting, returned the phone. Yassine triumphantly returned to Germany, with his phone and an Instagram account now boasting over 86,000 followers. His story has gone viral, demonstrating his determination to reclaim his personal property, regardless of the difficulties and distance. The story of Yassine is a unique case, showcasing the power of social media and the perseverance of a young man to claim what is rightfully his. His initiative to seek public assistance and the resonance of his post highlight the power of community and the support that can be offered in such cases.