The Plateau State Police Command has arrested three suspects over the alleged mob killing of a 25-year-old man in Jos, warning residents against taking the law into their own hands.
The victim, identified as Ibrahim Mbaya, was allegedly beaten to death by a group of youths over accusations that he stole an iPhone 12.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, the incident occurred on July 26, 2026. At about 11:20 p.m., the Lamingo Police Division received a report from a Good Samaritan at the that some youths had brought an unconscious man to the hospital under suspicious circumstances.
Police operatives immediately responded and identified the victim as Ibrahim Mbaya, a resident of Rayfield, Jos. Medical personnel confirmed that he was dead on arrival, and his remains were deposited in the hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Following a swift investigation, detectives arrested three suspects identified as Rinji Daniel Fwanji (25), Emmanuel Newyear (30) and Nensemka Fwanji (22).
Investigators disclosed that one of the suspects, Emmanuel Newyear, was captured in a viral video allegedly striking the deceased with a large wooden plank. Police also obtained photographs linking him to the incident.
During interrogation, the suspects allegedly admitted that the victim was accused of stealing an iPhone 12. Instead of reporting the matter to the police, they allegedly assaulted him until he became unconscious.
The suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Jos, where investigations are ongoing. Police said efforts have been intensified to arrest other suspects who are currently on the run.
The Command assured the public that all those found culpable would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Condemning the incident, the Plateau State Police Command described jungle justice as a criminal act that undermines the rule of law. The Command emphasized that no individual or group has the legal authority to assault or kill anyone merely on suspicion of committing an offence.
The Police reminded residents that Nigeria’s criminal justice system provides lawful procedures for investigating and prosecuting criminal offences, while every suspect is entitled to due process.
The Command urged members of the public to report suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station or other recognized security agencies rather than resorting to mob action.
Residents were also encouraged to remain law-abiding and continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to support crime prevention and effective policing across Plateau State.
