How long can the police keep your phone for investigation?

The police can keep your phone if they believe it contains evidence of an offence or was obtained through criminal activity, there is no specified time limit. However, its retention must be justified under the law, meaning they can only keep it if necessary to prevent disposal, damage, destruction, or tampering. The police can only retain it for as long as necessary in all the circumstances. Retention is only lawful if it serves a legitimate purpose, such as an ongoing investigation or forensic examination. If the phone is no longer needed by the police and they refuse to return it without proper justification, we can challenge their decision.